US20110093036A1 - Implantable Electrical Stimulator - Google Patents
Implantable Electrical Stimulator Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20110093036A1 US20110093036A1 US12/581,907 US58190709A US2011093036A1 US 20110093036 A1 US20110093036 A1 US 20110093036A1 US 58190709 A US58190709 A US 58190709A US 2011093036 A1 US2011093036 A1 US 2011093036A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- electrodes
- stimulator
- implantable stimulator
- muscle
- nerves
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Granted
Links
Images
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61N—ELECTROTHERAPY; MAGNETOTHERAPY; RADIATION THERAPY; ULTRASOUND THERAPY
- A61N1/00—Electrotherapy; Circuits therefor
- A61N1/18—Applying electric currents by contact electrodes
- A61N1/32—Applying electric currents by contact electrodes alternating or intermittent currents
- A61N1/36—Applying electric currents by contact electrodes alternating or intermittent currents for stimulation
- A61N1/3601—Applying electric currents by contact electrodes alternating or intermittent currents for stimulation of respiratory organs
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61N—ELECTROTHERAPY; MAGNETOTHERAPY; RADIATION THERAPY; ULTRASOUND THERAPY
- A61N1/00—Electrotherapy; Circuits therefor
- A61N1/02—Details
- A61N1/04—Electrodes
- A61N1/05—Electrodes for implantation or insertion into the body, e.g. heart electrode
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61N—ELECTROTHERAPY; MAGNETOTHERAPY; RADIATION THERAPY; ULTRASOUND THERAPY
- A61N1/00—Electrotherapy; Circuits therefor
- A61N1/02—Details
- A61N1/04—Electrodes
- A61N1/05—Electrodes for implantation or insertion into the body, e.g. heart electrode
- A61N1/0551—Spinal or peripheral nerve electrodes
- A61N1/0553—Paddle shaped electrodes, e.g. for laminotomy
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61N—ELECTROTHERAPY; MAGNETOTHERAPY; RADIATION THERAPY; ULTRASOUND THERAPY
- A61N1/00—Electrotherapy; Circuits therefor
- A61N1/18—Applying electric currents by contact electrodes
- A61N1/32—Applying electric currents by contact electrodes alternating or intermittent currents
- A61N1/36—Applying electric currents by contact electrodes alternating or intermittent currents for stimulation
- A61N1/372—Arrangements in connection with the implantation of stimulators
- A61N1/375—Constructional arrangements, e.g. casings
- A61N1/3756—Casings with electrodes thereon, e.g. leadless stimulators
Definitions
- the present invention relates generally to an implantable electrical stimulator and more specifically to an implantable electrical stimulator with a dynamically controlled electrode array.
- Implanting a stimulator to stimulate muscles or nerves is a complex procedure.
- a special electrode is used, such as a cuff electrode.
- the electrode is in the form of a wire extending from the stimulator to the nerve.
- Implantation of the stimulator requires surgical intervention to expose the position for implanting the electrode and stimulator and then requires fine-tuning the placement of the electrode so that accurate contact will be formed between the electrodes of the stimulator and specific contact points along the muscles or nerves.
- the electrodes are typically positioned to form contact with the motor end plate of a muscle, also called the neuromuscular junction of the muscle.
- the motor end plate In most muscles the motor end plate is located in the middle of the muscle, where the motor neuron interfaces with the muscle.
- the electrode may be provided as a rigid metal contact extending from the body of the stimulator and the stimulator is implanted with the electrode positioned in contact with the muscle/nerve contact points.
- One method to achieve the correct positioning is by trial and error, wherein the practitioner inserts the stimulator to a selected position and then provides a charge to the electrodes of the stimulator to verify the position according to the response of the muscles, for example contraction of the entire muscle indicates a successful positioning and local contraction indicates an unsuccessful positioning.
- This method requires a high level of expertise from the practitioner and may be very time consuming.
- Another method suggests the use of a probe that also serves as the introduction device for the stimulator. The practitioner uses the probe to locate the desired position and then uses the probe to insert the stimulator to the located position.
- Some problems may occur after positioning the stimulator.
- One problem is that a rigid stimulator may damage the muscles/nerves or surrounding tissue and lead to complications, for example causing inflammation, which may reduce tissue conductivity, so that the stimulator device may not stimulate the muscles/nerves properly.
- a second problem that may occur is movement of the stimulator and/or electrodes, which may cause a shift in the electrode alignment. The shift in the electrode alignment may reduce stimulation of the muscles/nerves thus preventing the stimulator from effectively causing tissue stimulation.
- U.S. Pat. No. 7,447,551 to Kuo et al. the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference describes using a flexible circuit board in creating an implantable stimulator.
- the stimulator is coated with a flexible bio-compatible package material to enhance safety, durability and reliability of the implantable stimulator.
- Kuo further discloses using an array of electrodes to enlarge the electrical treatment area and improving the electrical treatment efficiency.
- An aspect of an embodiment of the invention relates to an implantable stimulator for stimulating muscles and/or nerves, with a dynamically controllable array of electrodes.
- the array of electrodes is made up from one or more rows and one or more columns of electrodes positioned on a surface that can be placed in contact with a muscle/nerve.
- the stimulator may have multiple arrays, for example one on each side of the stimulator or even multiple arrays on each side of the stimulator.
- the array of electrodes has a density greater than the density of the muscle/nerve contact points, which need to be stimulated; or the array of electrodes occupies an area larger than that of the muscle/nerve contact point. In any of the above two options, once the stimulator is initially positioned at least some of the electrodes will coincide with the position of the contact points.
- the stimulator automatically determines which electrodes are in contact with points on the muscle/nerve wherein the action potentials signals measured at those points indicates that they are desirable contact points.
- the properties measured for an action potential signal may include among other details: frequency, amplitude, and propagation speed.
- the contact points are generally located in the motor units, which include the neuromuscular junction.
- the method of selecting a specific electrode or group of electrodes may include measuring the action potentials amplitudes, and creating time integrals, for example by using Root Mean Square to determine the location of the muscle's Motor Units.
- other algorithms such as decomposition algorithms, or Correlation Kernel Compensation, may help to determine the location of the muscle's Motor Units.
- the electrodes that are close or in contact with the muscle's Motor Units are selected as having measured the lowest resistance at the electrode contact point and those electrodes are used to stimulate the muscles/nerves of the patient.
- the determination may be made periodically or upon request of the patient or practitioner.
- the practitioner that installs the stimulator communicates with the stimulator wirelessly using a computer and selects the electrodes that elicit the most prominent clinical reaction.
- the array of electrodes is used to indentify contracting regions.
- the controller in the stimulator can then choose to stimulate the contracting regions or the non-contracting regions.
- the electrodes serve as inputs and outputs.
- some of the electrodes serve as inputs and some serve as outputs.
- the inputs measure the resistance or electrical activity of the muscle/nerve at their contact point with the muscle/nerve.
- the stimulator is made up from a few basic rigid elements, for example an integrated circuit to control the stimulator, a memory chip, a power source (e.g. a battery), a transceiver and other elements.
- each element is wrapped separately in a bio-compatible encasement and connected with flexible wiring or a common flexible backbone serving as a communication bus between the elements of the stimulator, thus providing a flexible stimulator.
- the electrodes are provided as a separate element made up from an array of contacts on a flexible material, for example, wherein the material is made up from Polyimide, Polyester or PEEK thermoplastic with the electrodes embedded in it.
- an implantable stimulator for stimulating muscles or nerves including:
- controller is adapted to dynamically select the electrodes that are used to participate in stimulating the muscles or nerves.
- the implantable stimulator further includes a power source to power the stimulator.
- the implantable stimulator further includes a transceiver to wirelessly communicate with external devices and receive commands for the controller.
- the controller selects the electrodes responsive to a communication from an external device.
- the controller periodically updates the selection of electrodes to participate in stimulation of the muscle or nerve.
- the controller selects the electrodes responsive to a determination made by electrical measurements made by the electrodes.
- substantially all the electrodes can serve as inputs to measure electrical activity in the muscles or nerves and as outputs to electrically stimulate the muscles or nerves.
- some of the electrodes serve as inputs to measure electrical activity in the muscles or nerves and some of the electrodes serve as outputs to electrically stimulate the muscles or nerves.
- the density of the array of electrodes is greater than the density of the active contact points of the muscle or nerve being stimulated by the stimulator.
- the array of electrodes is connected by flexible wires to the other elements of the stimulator.
- the stimulator is made up from multiple independent parts connected together electrically by a flexible connection.
- the stimulator is made up from flexible material.
- the array of electrodes forms a three-dimensional shape shielding the controller in said three-dimensional shape.
- the implantable stimulator further includes a housing, and said controller is located within the housing.
- the implantable stimulator further includes a housing, and the controller, and the power source are located within the housing.
- the stimulator is adapted to be implanted at the base of a person's tongue.
- the implantable stimulator further includes sensors to sense physiological parameters of the person with the implanted stimulator.
- the sensors are adapted to sense physical parameters from the group consisting of temperature, vibrations, and audio signals.
- the stimulator is activated responsive to measurements received by the sensors.
- the power source receives power wirelessly.
- a method of stimulating muscles or nerves using an implantable stimulator with an array of electrodes including:
- the method further includes implanting the stimulator so that the array of electrodes is in proximity with a muscle or nerve.
- the selection is performed manually by a practitioner by communicating with the stimulator and instructing the stimulator to activate one or more electrodes or groups of electrodes while observing the response.
- the selection is performed by the electrode array measuring electrical parameters through one or more electrodes or group of electrodes and making a selection based on the results of said measurements.
- the selection is performed by the electrode array measuring electrical parameters through an external device.
- the selection is repeated periodically.
- the selection is activated responsive to inputs accepted by the stimulator.
- the selection is activated responsive to sensor input.
- dynamically selecting further includes performing a pre-programmed algorithm to weigh the results from various inputs and determining whether to provide stimulation.
- the method further includes determining the specific stimulation protocol to provide.
- the dynamic selection is responsive to electrical measurements at the location of the electrodes.
- the dynamic selection is responsive to responsiveness of the nerve or muscle at the location of the electrodes.
- the method further includes adjusting the stimulator responsive to a measurement before activating the stimulator.
- the stimulation is provided at specific times, for specific time duration, or periodically.
- FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of a block diagram of an electrical stimulator, according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention
- FIG. 2A is a schematic illustration of an electrical stimulator with independent elements connected by flexible wires, according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention
- FIG. 2B is a schematic illustration of an electrical stimulator with independent elements connected by a flexible backbone serving as a communication bus, according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention
- FIG. 3A is a schematic illustration of a flexible electrode array shaped as a tent, according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 3B is a schematic illustration of a flexible electrode array shielding beneath it other elements connected together by a flexible wire, according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention
- FIG. 3C is a schematic illustration of a flexible electrode array shielding beneath it other elements connected together by a flexible communication bus, according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 3D is a schematic illustration of a flexible electrode array implanted at the base of the tongue, according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 4A is a schematic illustration of a flexible electrode array shaped as a flat surface, according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 4B is a schematic illustration of a flexible electrode array shaped as a cylinder, according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 4C is a schematic illustration of a flexible electrode array shaped as a 3 dimensional curved surface with electrodes on the inner side, according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 4D is a schematic illustration of a flexible electrode array with branches of electrodes extending from a common center, according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 4E is a schematic illustration of a flexible electrode array with branches of electrodes of various sizes extending from a common center, according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 5 is a flow diagram of a method of using a stimulator, according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of a block diagram of an electrical stimulator 100 , according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
- stimulator 100 includes an electrode array 110 , which is designed to be placed in contact with the contact points of nerves or muscles, or in proximity thereof, so that the electrodes can stimulate the contact points.
- the electrode array is denser than the contact points on the muscle or nerve (e.g. 1-100,000 electrodes per millimeter, or per centimeter) or the array of electrodes occupies an area larger than that of the muscle/nerve contact point, so that each contact point on the muscle or nerve that needs to be stimulated will have one or more electrodes 115 in contact with it.
- some or all of the electrodes can be placed in proximity with the contact points of nerves or muscles.
- placed includes, but is not limited to implanted, inserted, injected, wrapped, and in any other way positioned in contact or in proximity to contact points of nerves or muscles.
- the tips of the electrodes that are in contact with the patient's tissue may be any shape, for example circular or rectangular.
- the tip may be flat or rounded to prevent electrode array 110 from getting stuck if placed in contact with the patient's tissue before reaching its final position.
- the tips of the electrode may be coated with materials that encourage tissue fibrosis.
- the tips may be thorn like to anchor stimulator 100 .
- electrodes 115 are made of or plated with a bio-compatible metal (e.g. a noble metal like platinum or gold).
- the shape of electrode array 110 is selected based on the type of nerve or muscle needed to be stimulated.
- the shape may be one dimensional (e.g. a line of electrodes), two dimensional or three dimensional.
- an electrode array controller 120 is used to control the electrodes 115 of electrode array 110 .
- electrode array controller 120 can be used to select or deselect any of the electrodes 115 , so that when stimulator 100 outputs a stimulation pulse the selected electrodes will output the pulse.
- some electrodes are output electrodes and some are input electrodes.
- the electrodes can be selected to be either input or output.
- electrode array controller 120 can use input electrodes as input sensors, for example to serve as an electromyograph (EMG), detecting the resistance/conductivity or action potential of the muscles/nerves in contact with a specific electrode.
- EMG electromyograph
- such a measurement can be used to locate the desired area for stimulation of the muscle or nerve and determine which electrodes 115 are in contact with the desired areas.
- the exact position of the electrode array may shift and electrodes 115 that were previously selected to stimulate contact points may shift over and other electrodes may be in contact with the muscle/nerve contact points in their place.
- the electrodes participating in stimulating the muscles/nerves of the patient are dynamically selectable, so that the electrodes 115 participating in stimulating the muscles/nerves can be reselected to overcome such problems.
- stimulator 100 includes a control circuit 130 , which includes a general purpose CPU or an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) or the like to control the functionality of the stimulator, for example to determine when to provide a stimulation signal and the parameters of the signal, for example its frequency, pulse width, pulse shape, pulse interval and pulse duration.
- control circuit 130 is preprogrammed to apply various stimulation programs, such as:
- Biphasic stimulation that alternates polarization on the electrodes 115 to prevent accumulation of ions and acidosis thus reducing tissue damage.
- each program may use different pulse frequency, shapes, widths, intervals, durations and other parameters for the stimulation signal applied to the electrodes.
- stimulator 100 includes a memory 140 , for example a non-volatile memory that is used to store operational parameters or program code which the control circuit can act upon.
- stimulator 100 further includes a power supply 160 , which may include a rechargeable battery, for example a Li-Ion battery. Alternatively or additionally, the power supply may include a capacitor and/or coil for holding charge for a short term until charging the battery or for immediate consumption.
- the power for using the device is provided by wireless transmission of power to a power receptor 170 , for example an induction coil or RFID coil.
- stimulator 100 may be activated as long as power receptor 170 is accepting transmitted power. Alternatively, stimulator 100 is first charged and then activated to consume the power from power supply 160 . Further alternatively, priority is giving to the stimulation: first stimulating by passing the received power transmission directly to the stimulation circuit, and then charging.
- stimulator 100 includes a transceiver 150 for communicating between stimulator 100 and an external device, such as a personal computer 180 or an external activation device 190 that is designed to communicate with stimulator 100 .
- an external device such as a personal computer 180 or an external activation device 190 that is designed to communicate with stimulator 100 .
- the communications and/or power transfer are performed using a non-standard protocol to prevent interference from standard communication equipment.
- standard communication protocols may be used, for example communicating with WIFI, BlueTooth (BT), RF or other common standards so that stimulator 100 can readily communicate with standard equipment that is readily available, such as personal computer 180 or a cellular telephone (e.g. using BT).
- communications with stimulator 100 may be encrypted and/or require authentication to prevent undesirable transmissions from non-authorized users.
- a predefined range of transmission frequencies is used so it will not interfere or receive interference from other radio emitting devices.
- stimulator 100 includes one or more sensors 125 that sense various parameters such as temperature, sound, vibrations, pressure, electrical current, impedance, and the like. Alternatively or additionally, stimulator 100 receives wireless communication from sensors implanted elsewhere in the patient or located outside of the patient. Optionally, muscle/nerve stimulation can be activated responsive to the measurements of sensors 125 . In some embodiments of the invention, stimulator 100 may activate stimulation responsive to specific combinations of measurements.
- An example of use of an internal or external sensor occurs in dealing with Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). During sleep a person inhales colder air (e.g. at room temperature of about 25° C.) and exhales warmer air (e.g. at body temperature of about 37° C.).
- OSA Obstructive Sleep Apnea
- stimulator 100 may be planted at the base of the tongue adjacent to the air path of the patient's breath.
- a temperature sensor can follow the breathing pattern by following the temperature changes and alert stimulator 100 to stimulate the tongue muscles responsive to a determination that the tongue is blocking the path.
- an external sensor can be positioned over the patient's mouth or nose to keep track of the breathing pattern.
- sensor 125 is used to measure the electrical current or impedance of specific electrodes to determine the importance of the specific electrode in stimulating the nerve/muscle at the current position of stimulator 100 and electrode array 110 .
- FIG. 2A is a schematic illustration of an electrical stimulator 200 with independent elements 220 connected by flexible wires, according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention
- FIG. 2B is a schematic illustration of an electrical stimulator 250 with independent elements 270 connected by a flexible backbone 280 serving as a communication bus, according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
- stimulator 100 is made up from various elements.
- each element may comprise a rigid electronic circuit or other rigid parts (e.g. a battery, a coil, a capacitor, an integrated circuit), which communicate electronically with the other elements of stimulator 100 .
- FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of an electrical stimulator 200 with independent elements 220 connected by flexible wires, according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention
- FIG. 2B is a schematic illustration of an electrical stimulator 250 with independent elements 270 connected by a flexible backbone 280 serving as a communication bus, according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
- stimulator 100 is made up from various elements.
- each element may comprise a rigid electronic circuit or other rigid
- elements 220 are electronically connected by flexible wires 210 , thus providing a larger overall flexible stimulator 200 .
- elements 270 are connected to a flexible communication bus 280 , forming an overall flexible stimulator 280 .
- a flexible stimulator is less apt to be damaged by external forces and can be more easily manipulated to fit into various positions inside the patient's body.
- a flexible stimulator such as shown in FIG. 2A or 2 B will also allow free 3D movement of an organ (e.g. muscle) without causing damage.
- the flexible connection between the elements enables the elements to be freely positioned relative to each other and effectively allow bending or folding of stimulator 100 .
- FIG. 3A is a schematic illustration of a flexible electrode array 300 shaped as a triangular tent, according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
- the flexible electrode array is shaped to fit the nerve or muscle it is to be placed inside or next to.
- the flexible electrode array is shaped to fit a recess between nerves or tissue, a compartment in muscles or between tissues, or an epimysial surface. Such recess, compartment or surface can naturally occur or be artificially created.
- Electrode array 300 is densely populated (e.g.
- OSA Obstructive Sleep Apnea
- FIG. 3B is a schematic illustration of a flexible electrode array 300 shielding beneath it other elements 330 connected together by a flexible wire 320
- FIG. 3C is a schematic illustration of a flexible electrode array 300 shielding beneath it other elements 330 connected together by a flexible communication bus 325 , according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention
- the flexible electrode array can comprise a shape forming a housing, or be placed on a housing, said other elements 330 connected together are placed within said housing.
- electrode array 300 is connected by flexible wires 320 , as shown in FIG. 3B , to elements 330 and battery 340 , which constitute the elements of stimulator 100 .
- electrode array 300 is connected by flexible bus 325 , as shown in FIG. 3C , to elements 330 and battery 340 , which constitute the elements of stimulator 100 .
- battery 340 is not part of the elements of simulator 100 .
- Alternative power sources to battery 340 can include a capacitor, super capacitor, piezo-electric charging material, mechanical (induced by body or other organ or tissue movement) or chemical (such as ionic difference) power sources, coil or a coil having a ferrite core, and the like.
- action potential generated by neurons and nerve tissue across the nerve or muscle are gather via the electrode array and stored in a capacitor (not shown).
- the action potential translated into energy can be used to power the device of the invention.
- the housing is made of flexible bio compatible material such that the entire device is flexible.
- the triangular tent shape of array 300 and the other shapes disclosed herein assists in forming contact between electrodes 310 and the contact points at the base of the Genioglossus muscle, or more specifically near the compartments of the Genioglossus oblique fibers, and above the Geniohyoid muscle. Additionally, the triangular tent shape provide for a cavity or an opening underneath thereof that can be exploited to store other elements 330 and battery 340 or other power sources of stimulator 100 by folding them up or placing them beneath array 300 or within said housing (not shown).
- FIG. 3D is a schematic illustration of flexible electrode array 300 implanted at the base of the tongue, according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
- electrode array 300 is designed so that when it is deployed, electrodes 310 will be in contact with the Genioglossus muscle 350 and more specifically adjacent to the Genioglossus horizontal fibers 350 and/or near the Hypoglossal nerves 360 , so that electrodes 310 will successfully be able to stimulate the Genioglossus horizontal compartment causing dilation of the pharynx during breathing.
- the shape of electrode array 300 is especially efficient in stimulating the Genioglossus muscle 350 , as this muscle has numerous motor end plates, located in various locations in contrast to many other muscles.
- FIGS. 4A-4E provide various exemplary shapes of electrode arrays to be used to position the electrode array in proximity with the muscles or nerves that are to be stimulated by the electrodes of the array.
- the exemplary shapes include:
- a flat surface 400 1.
- the shape is designed to match the muscles/nerves that stimulator 100 is designed to stimulate.
- FIG. 5 is a flow diagram 500 of a method of stimulating muscles or nerves using implantable stimulator 100 with an array of electrodes, according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
- a medical practitioner implants ( 510 ) the device.
- the implantation process depends on the location and type of muscle/nerve to be stimulated.
- a non-invasive procedure is preferable, for example by injecting the device using a hypodermic needle with local anesthesia only.
- the use of a point and shoot insertion method is preferable, since it is more comfortable for the patient and less invasive.
- stimulator 100 is advantageous since the multiplicity of electrodes relative to the number of contact points on the muscle/nerve and the ability to select the optimal electrodes for stimulation after implantation, reduce the need to adjust the position of stimulator 100 responsive to actual stimulation during the insertion process.
- An example of use of a stimulator 100 is in dealing with Obstructive Sleep Apnea patients.
- stimulator 100 is implanted in the vicinity of the Hypoglossal nerve using a shallow transcutaneous approach. In other cases stimulator 100 is implanted into the Genioglossus muscle using an intraoral or transcutaneous/submandibular approach.
- the practitioner may adjust ( 520 ) the implanted stimulator responsive to an Ultrasound, MRI, CT, X-ray or other measurements before activating the stimulator 100 .
- the implantation is performed using a point and shoot process that does not require additional adjustments, however in some cases, usually depending on the type of stimulator and position of implantation in the patient's body further measurements may be required to verify accurate positioning, and further adjustments may be needed.
- the implantation procedure is performed while using an imaging device (such as Ultrasound, MRI, CT, or X-ray) to guide the practitioner in locating the exact implantation site.
- the electrode array controller 120 dynamically selects ( 530 ) the electrodes from electrode array 110 that will be used to stimulate the muscle/nerve.
- the selection is performed manually by the practitioner, for example by communicating with stimulator 100 (e.g. with computer 180 ) and either instructing stimulator 100 to activate single electrodes or groups of electrodes while observing the response, and/or instructing stimulator 100 to use the electrode array 110 to measure electrical parameters such as resistance, conductance, or EMG signals, for each electrode or for groups of electrodes.
- the practitioner may also measure a response via an external device, for example a surface EMG, fiber optic, manometer, polysomnograph, pulse oximeter, EEG, microphone.
- the selection may be performed automatically by electrode array controller 120 , wherein electrode array controller 120 measures EMG signals, or other signals, and dynamically selects ( 530 ) the electrodes that will participate in the stimulation process responsive to the measurements.
- stimulator 100 automatically, repeats the dynamic selection process before every use, or periodically (e.g. every day or every week or before the next use, or at predetermined intervals) to verify that stimulator 100 has not moved and to remedy the situation if it has.
- predetermined intervals can be determined through a preprogrammed plan or reprogrammed when so required, or ad hoc as per each use.
- the dynamic selection can be performed every few seconds or every few minutes or on an hourly basis and the like.
- stimulator 100 is activated ( 550 ) responsive to various inputs accepted ( 540 ) by stimulator 100 .
- the inputs may be based on physiological parameters of the patient or may be based on commands from an external source such as external activation device 190 .
- external activation device 190 is used to activate the stimulator whenever the patient feels the need, for example when suffering pain or when interested that muscles controlled by stimulator 100 be activated.
- the patient when treating OSA, the patient may activate stimulator 100 when going to sleep, and stimulator 100 will perform muscle/nerve stimulation responsive to sensors that determine that the patient's tongue needs to be stimulated to enable the patient to breathe.
- external activation device 190 may be a simple transmitter with one or more buttons or switches 195 to transmit signals to stimulator 100 and to select from a few options, for example to stimulate immediately, periodically or responsive to sensor measurements.
- a general purpose computer 180 can be used to program stimulator 100 by transmitting simple or complex commands and receiving responses from stimulator 100 .
- external activation device 190 supplies power to stimulator 100 .
- stimulator 100 may be activated ( 550 ) whenever power is provided. Alternatively, it may charge power supply 160 and be activated ( 550 ) at a later time.
- stimulator 100 may sense various physiological parameters of the patient with sensors 125 , for example:
- Temperature in the vicinity of stimulator 100 for example a higher temperature value responsive to the patient expiration in the vicinity of the implanted stimulator 100 and a lower temperature value responsive to the patient inspiration in the vicinity of stimulator 100 .
- a decrease in the temperature change may indicate reduction in breathing;
- Audio signals for example, keeping track of the patient's heartbeat, breathing/snoring pattern, or breathing/snoring sounds.
- a decrease in the volume of breathing sounds may indicate an OSA event
- EMG signals for example, keeping track of the patient's muscle tone.
- a decrease in the patient's muscle tone may indicate an OSA event.
- an increase in the patient's respiratory auxiliary muscle tone may indicate an OSA event.
- sensors are placed at other positions on the patient's body and they communicate wirelessly with stimulator 100 .
- control 130 may perform a pre-programmed algorithm to weigh the results from various inputs and determine if to stimulate or not.
- control 130 can be programmed to decide the specific stimulation protocol (e.g. pulse width, pulse amplitude, pulse shape).
- stimulator 100 operates independently, without receiving any feedback.
- stimulator 100 is pre-programmed to stimulate at specific times, for specific time duration, or to stimulate periodically, for example for 10 seconds every hour.
Abstract
Description
- The present invention relates generally to an implantable electrical stimulator and more specifically to an implantable electrical stimulator with a dynamically controlled electrode array.
- Implanting a stimulator to stimulate muscles or nerves is a complex procedure. Generally in the case of nerve stimulation, a special electrode is used, such as a cuff electrode. Generally the electrode is in the form of a wire extending from the stimulator to the nerve. Implantation of the stimulator requires surgical intervention to expose the position for implanting the electrode and stimulator and then requires fine-tuning the placement of the electrode so that accurate contact will be formed between the electrodes of the stimulator and specific contact points along the muscles or nerves.
- In the case of muscle stimulators, the electrodes are typically positioned to form contact with the motor end plate of a muscle, also called the neuromuscular junction of the muscle. In most muscles the motor end plate is located in the middle of the muscle, where the motor neuron interfaces with the muscle.
- In recent years manufactures have managed to reduce the size of stimulators significantly, for example to approximately 3 mm by 27 mm. In a reduced size stimulator the electrode may be provided as a rigid metal contact extending from the body of the stimulator and the stimulator is implanted with the electrode positioned in contact with the muscle/nerve contact points.
- One method to achieve the correct positioning is by trial and error, wherein the practitioner inserts the stimulator to a selected position and then provides a charge to the electrodes of the stimulator to verify the position according to the response of the muscles, for example contraction of the entire muscle indicates a successful positioning and local contraction indicates an unsuccessful positioning. This method requires a high level of expertise from the practitioner and may be very time consuming.
- Another method suggests the use of a probe that also serves as the introduction device for the stimulator. The practitioner uses the probe to locate the desired position and then uses the probe to insert the stimulator to the located position.
- Some problems may occur after positioning the stimulator. One problem is that a rigid stimulator may damage the muscles/nerves or surrounding tissue and lead to complications, for example causing inflammation, which may reduce tissue conductivity, so that the stimulator device may not stimulate the muscles/nerves properly. A second problem that may occur is movement of the stimulator and/or electrodes, which may cause a shift in the electrode alignment. The shift in the electrode alignment may reduce stimulation of the muscles/nerves thus preventing the stimulator from effectively causing tissue stimulation.
- U.S. Pat. No. 7,447,551 to Kuo et al. the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference describes using a flexible circuit board in creating an implantable stimulator. The stimulator is coated with a flexible bio-compatible package material to enhance safety, durability and reliability of the implantable stimulator. Kuo further discloses using an array of electrodes to enlarge the electrical treatment area and improving the electrical treatment efficiency.
- An aspect of an embodiment of the invention, relates to an implantable stimulator for stimulating muscles and/or nerves, with a dynamically controllable array of electrodes. The array of electrodes is made up from one or more rows and one or more columns of electrodes positioned on a surface that can be placed in contact with a muscle/nerve. Optionally, the stimulator may have multiple arrays, for example one on each side of the stimulator or even multiple arrays on each side of the stimulator. In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the array of electrodes has a density greater than the density of the muscle/nerve contact points, which need to be stimulated; or the array of electrodes occupies an area larger than that of the muscle/nerve contact point. In any of the above two options, once the stimulator is initially positioned at least some of the electrodes will coincide with the position of the contact points.
- In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the stimulator automatically determines which electrodes are in contact with points on the muscle/nerve wherein the action potentials signals measured at those points indicates that they are desirable contact points. The properties measured for an action potential signal may include among other details: frequency, amplitude, and propagation speed. Optionally, when relating to muscle stimulation, the contact points are generally located in the motor units, which include the neuromuscular junction.
- In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the method of selecting a specific electrode or group of electrodes may include measuring the action potentials amplitudes, and creating time integrals, for example by using Root Mean Square to determine the location of the muscle's Motor Units. Alternatively or additionally, other algorithms, such as decomposition algorithms, or Correlation Kernel Compensation, may help to determine the location of the muscle's Motor Units. Optionally, the electrodes that are close or in contact with the muscle's Motor Units are selected as having measured the lowest resistance at the electrode contact point and those electrodes are used to stimulate the muscles/nerves of the patient. Optionally, the determination may be made periodically or upon request of the patient or practitioner. In an alternative embodiment of the invention, the practitioner that installs the stimulator, communicates with the stimulator wirelessly using a computer and selects the electrodes that elicit the most prominent clinical reaction.
- In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the array of electrodes is used to indentify contracting regions. The controller in the stimulator can then choose to stimulate the contracting regions or the non-contracting regions.
- In some embodiments of the invention, the electrodes serve as inputs and outputs. Alternatively, some of the electrodes serve as inputs and some serve as outputs. Optionally, the inputs measure the resistance or electrical activity of the muscle/nerve at their contact point with the muscle/nerve.
- In some embodiment of the invention, the stimulator is made up from a few basic rigid elements, for example an integrated circuit to control the stimulator, a memory chip, a power source (e.g. a battery), a transceiver and other elements. Optionally, each element is wrapped separately in a bio-compatible encasement and connected with flexible wiring or a common flexible backbone serving as a communication bus between the elements of the stimulator, thus providing a flexible stimulator. In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the electrodes are provided as a separate element made up from an array of contacts on a flexible material, for example, wherein the material is made up from Polyimide, Polyester or PEEK thermoplastic with the electrodes embedded in it.
- There is thus provided according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, an implantable stimulator for stimulating muscles or nerves, including:
- an array of electrodes for electrically stimulating muscles or nerves;
- a controller for controlling the activity of the electrodes;
- wherein the controller is adapted to dynamically select the electrodes that are used to participate in stimulating the muscles or nerves.
- Optionally, the implantable stimulator further includes a power source to power the stimulator.
- In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the implantable stimulator further includes a transceiver to wirelessly communicate with external devices and receive commands for the controller.
- Optionally, the controller selects the electrodes responsive to a communication from an external device.
- In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the controller periodically updates the selection of electrodes to participate in stimulation of the muscle or nerve.
- Optionally, the controller selects the electrodes responsive to a determination made by electrical measurements made by the electrodes.
- In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, substantially all the electrodes can serve as inputs to measure electrical activity in the muscles or nerves and as outputs to electrically stimulate the muscles or nerves.
- Optionally, some of the electrodes serve as inputs to measure electrical activity in the muscles or nerves and some of the electrodes serve as outputs to electrically stimulate the muscles or nerves.
- In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the density of the array of electrodes is greater than the density of the active contact points of the muscle or nerve being stimulated by the stimulator.
- Optionally, the array of electrodes is connected by flexible wires to the other elements of the stimulator.
- In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the stimulator is made up from multiple independent parts connected together electrically by a flexible connection.
- Optionally, the stimulator is made up from flexible material. In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the array of electrodes forms a three-dimensional shape shielding the controller in said three-dimensional shape.
- In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the implantable stimulator further includes a housing, and said controller is located within the housing.
- Optionally, the implantable stimulator further includes a housing, and the controller, and the power source are located within the housing.
- In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the stimulator is adapted to be implanted at the base of a person's tongue.
- Optionally, the implantable stimulator further includes sensors to sense physiological parameters of the person with the implanted stimulator.
- In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the sensors are adapted to sense physical parameters from the group consisting of temperature, vibrations, and audio signals.
- Optionally, the stimulator is activated responsive to measurements received by the sensors.
- In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the power source receives power wirelessly.
- There is further provided according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, a method of stimulating muscles or nerves using an implantable stimulator with an array of electrodes, including:
- dynamically selecting the electrodes that will participate in stimulating the muscle or nerve from the available electrodes; and
- activating the selected electrodes to stimulate a muscle or nerve.
- In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the method further includes implanting the stimulator so that the array of electrodes is in proximity with a muscle or nerve.
- Optionally, the selection is performed manually by a practitioner by communicating with the stimulator and instructing the stimulator to activate one or more electrodes or groups of electrodes while observing the response.
- Alternatively or additionally, the selection is performed by the electrode array measuring electrical parameters through one or more electrodes or group of electrodes and making a selection based on the results of said measurements.
- Optionally, the selection is performed by the electrode array measuring electrical parameters through an external device.
- In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the selection is repeated periodically.
- Optionally, the selection is activated responsive to inputs accepted by the stimulator.
- In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the selection is activated responsive to sensor input.
- Optionally, dynamically selecting further includes performing a pre-programmed algorithm to weigh the results from various inputs and determining whether to provide stimulation.
- In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the method further includes determining the specific stimulation protocol to provide.
- Optionally, the dynamic selection is responsive to electrical measurements at the location of the electrodes.
- In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the dynamic selection is responsive to responsiveness of the nerve or muscle at the location of the electrodes.
- Optionally, the method further includes adjusting the stimulator responsive to a measurement before activating the stimulator.
- In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the stimulation is provided at specific times, for specific time duration, or periodically.
- The present invention will be understood and better appreciated from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the drawings. Identical structures, elements or parts, which appear in more than one figure, are generally labeled with the same or similar number in all the figures in which they appear, wherein:
-
FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of a block diagram of an electrical stimulator, according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention; -
FIG. 2A is a schematic illustration of an electrical stimulator with independent elements connected by flexible wires, according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention; -
FIG. 2B is a schematic illustration of an electrical stimulator with independent elements connected by a flexible backbone serving as a communication bus, according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention; -
FIG. 3A is a schematic illustration of a flexible electrode array shaped as a tent, according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention; -
FIG. 3B is a schematic illustration of a flexible electrode array shielding beneath it other elements connected together by a flexible wire, according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention; -
FIG. 3C is a schematic illustration of a flexible electrode array shielding beneath it other elements connected together by a flexible communication bus, according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention; -
FIG. 3D is a schematic illustration of a flexible electrode array implanted at the base of the tongue, according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention; -
FIG. 4A is a schematic illustration of a flexible electrode array shaped as a flat surface, according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention; -
FIG. 4B is a schematic illustration of a flexible electrode array shaped as a cylinder, according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention; -
FIG. 4C is a schematic illustration of a flexible electrode array shaped as a 3 dimensional curved surface with electrodes on the inner side, according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention; -
FIG. 4D is a schematic illustration of a flexible electrode array with branches of electrodes extending from a common center, according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention; -
FIG. 4E is a schematic illustration of a flexible electrode array with branches of electrodes of various sizes extending from a common center, according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention; and -
FIG. 5 is a flow diagram of a method of using a stimulator, according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of a block diagram of anelectrical stimulator 100, according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention. In an exemplary embodiment of the invention,stimulator 100 includes anelectrode array 110, which is designed to be placed in contact with the contact points of nerves or muscles, or in proximity thereof, so that the electrodes can stimulate the contact points. Optionally, the electrode array is denser than the contact points on the muscle or nerve (e.g. 1-100,000 electrodes per millimeter, or per centimeter) or the array of electrodes occupies an area larger than that of the muscle/nerve contact point, so that each contact point on the muscle or nerve that needs to be stimulated will have one ormore electrodes 115 in contact with it. In some embodiments of the present invention, some or all of the electrodes can be placed in proximity with the contact points of nerves or muscles. In the context of the present invention placed, includes, but is not limited to implanted, inserted, injected, wrapped, and in any other way positioned in contact or in proximity to contact points of nerves or muscles. In some embodiments of the invention, the tips of the electrodes that are in contact with the patient's tissue may be any shape, for example circular or rectangular. Optionally, the tip may be flat or rounded to preventelectrode array 110 from getting stuck if placed in contact with the patient's tissue before reaching its final position. Alternatively, the tips of the electrode may be coated with materials that encourage tissue fibrosis. Alternatively, the tips may be thorn like to anchorstimulator 100. In an exemplary embodiment of the invention,electrodes 115 are made of or plated with a bio-compatible metal (e.g. a noble metal like platinum or gold). - Optionally, the shape of
electrode array 110 is selected based on the type of nerve or muscle needed to be stimulated. In some embodiments of the invention, the shape may be one dimensional (e.g. a line of electrodes), two dimensional or three dimensional. - In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, an
electrode array controller 120 is used to control theelectrodes 115 ofelectrode array 110. Optionally,electrode array controller 120 can be used to select or deselect any of theelectrodes 115, so that whenstimulator 100 outputs a stimulation pulse the selected electrodes will output the pulse. In some embodiments of the invention, some electrodes are output electrodes and some are input electrodes. Alternatively, the electrodes can be selected to be either input or output. Optionally,electrode array controller 120 can use input electrodes as input sensors, for example to serve as an electromyograph (EMG), detecting the resistance/conductivity or action potential of the muscles/nerves in contact with a specific electrode. Optionally, such a measurement can be used to locate the desired area for stimulation of the muscle or nerve and determine whichelectrodes 115 are in contact with the desired areas. - In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, due to external forces exerted on
stimulator 100 after being embedded in a patient, the exact position of the electrode array may shift andelectrodes 115 that were previously selected to stimulate contact points may shift over and other electrodes may be in contact with the muscle/nerve contact points in their place. As explained above the electrodes participating in stimulating the muscles/nerves of the patient are dynamically selectable, so that theelectrodes 115 participating in stimulating the muscles/nerves can be reselected to overcome such problems. - In an exemplary embodiment of the invention,
stimulator 100 includes acontrol circuit 130, which includes a general purpose CPU or an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) or the like to control the functionality of the stimulator, for example to determine when to provide a stimulation signal and the parameters of the signal, for example its frequency, pulse width, pulse shape, pulse interval and pulse duration. Optionally,control circuit 130 is preprogrammed to apply various stimulation programs, such as: - 1. A nerve stimulation program;
- 2. A muscle stimulation program; and
- 3. Biphasic stimulation that alternates polarization on the
electrodes 115 to prevent accumulation of ions and acidosis thus reducing tissue damage. - Optionally, each program may use different pulse frequency, shapes, widths, intervals, durations and other parameters for the stimulation signal applied to the electrodes.
- In some embodiments of the invention,
stimulator 100 includes amemory 140, for example a non-volatile memory that is used to store operational parameters or program code which the control circuit can act upon. - Optionally,
stimulator 100 further includes apower supply 160, which may include a rechargeable battery, for example a Li-Ion battery. Alternatively or additionally, the power supply may include a capacitor and/or coil for holding charge for a short term until charging the battery or for immediate consumption. In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the power for using the device is provided by wireless transmission of power to apower receptor 170, for example an induction coil or RFID coil. In an exemplary embodiment of the invention,stimulator 100 may be activated as long aspower receptor 170 is accepting transmitted power. Alternatively,stimulator 100 is first charged and then activated to consume the power frompower supply 160. Further alternatively, priority is giving to the stimulation: first stimulating by passing the received power transmission directly to the stimulation circuit, and then charging. - In some embodiments of the invention,
stimulator 100 includes atransceiver 150 for communicating betweenstimulator 100 and an external device, such as apersonal computer 180 or anexternal activation device 190 that is designed to communicate withstimulator 100. - In some embodiments of the invention, the communications and/or power transfer are performed using a non-standard protocol to prevent interference from standard communication equipment. Alternatively, standard communication protocols may be used, for example communicating with WIFI, BlueTooth (BT), RF or other common standards so that
stimulator 100 can readily communicate with standard equipment that is readily available, such aspersonal computer 180 or a cellular telephone (e.g. using BT). Optionally, communications withstimulator 100 may be encrypted and/or require authentication to prevent undesirable transmissions from non-authorized users. Alternatively or additionally, a predefined range of transmission frequencies is used so it will not interfere or receive interference from other radio emitting devices. - In some embodiments of the invention,
stimulator 100 includes one ormore sensors 125 that sense various parameters such as temperature, sound, vibrations, pressure, electrical current, impedance, and the like. Alternatively or additionally,stimulator 100 receives wireless communication from sensors implanted elsewhere in the patient or located outside of the patient. Optionally, muscle/nerve stimulation can be activated responsive to the measurements ofsensors 125. In some embodiments of the invention,stimulator 100 may activate stimulation responsive to specific combinations of measurements. An example of use of an internal or external sensor occurs in dealing with Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). During sleep a person inhales colder air (e.g. at room temperature of about 25° C.) and exhales warmer air (e.g. at body temperature of about 37° C.). Optionally,stimulator 100 may be planted at the base of the tongue adjacent to the air path of the patient's breath. A temperature sensor can follow the breathing pattern by following the temperature changes andalert stimulator 100 to stimulate the tongue muscles responsive to a determination that the tongue is blocking the path. Alternatively, an external sensor can be positioned over the patient's mouth or nose to keep track of the breathing pattern. - In some embodiments of the invention,
sensor 125 is used to measure the electrical current or impedance of specific electrodes to determine the importance of the specific electrode in stimulating the nerve/muscle at the current position ofstimulator 100 andelectrode array 110. -
FIG. 2A is a schematic illustration of anelectrical stimulator 200 withindependent elements 220 connected by flexible wires, according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention; andFIG. 2B is a schematic illustration of anelectrical stimulator 250 withindependent elements 270 connected by aflexible backbone 280 serving as a communication bus, according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention. In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, as illustrated above inFIG. 1 stimulator 100 is made up from various elements. Optionally, each element may comprise a rigid electronic circuit or other rigid parts (e.g. a battery, a coil, a capacitor, an integrated circuit), which communicate electronically with the other elements ofstimulator 100. In some embodiments of the invention, as illustrated inFIG. 2A bystimulator 200,elements 220 are electronically connected byflexible wires 210, thus providing a larger overallflexible stimulator 200. Alternatively, as illustrated inFIG. 2B ,elements 270 are connected to aflexible communication bus 280, forming an overallflexible stimulator 280. Optionally, a flexible stimulator is less apt to be damaged by external forces and can be more easily manipulated to fit into various positions inside the patient's body. Additionally, a flexible stimulator such as shown inFIG. 2A or 2B will also allow free 3D movement of an organ (e.g. muscle) without causing damage. Optionally, the flexible connection between the elements enables the elements to be freely positioned relative to each other and effectively allow bending or folding ofstimulator 100. - In an exemplary embodiment of the invention,
electrode array 110 is designed to match the muscle or nerve it will be interfacing.FIG. 3A is a schematic illustration of aflexible electrode array 300 shaped as a triangular tent, according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention. In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the flexible electrode array is shaped to fit the nerve or muscle it is to be placed inside or next to. In another exemplary embodiment of the invention, the flexible electrode array is shaped to fit a recess between nerves or tissue, a compartment in muscles or between tissues, or an epimysial surface. Such recess, compartment or surface can naturally occur or be artificially created.Electrode array 300 is densely populated (e.g. between 1×1 to 1000×1000electrodes 310 per millimeter square or more, or less) and it is designed to be used to stimulate the Genioglossus muscle at the base of the tongue for treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). It should be noted that the above design is not limiting and other designs can also be used for treatment of OSA. -
FIG. 3B is a schematic illustration of aflexible electrode array 300 shielding beneath itother elements 330 connected together by aflexible wire 320 andFIG. 3C is a schematic illustration of aflexible electrode array 300 shielding beneath itother elements 330 connected together by aflexible communication bus 325, according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention; In other exemplary embodiments of the invention, the flexible electrode array can comprise a shape forming a housing, or be placed on a housing, saidother elements 330 connected together are placed within said housing. - In an exemplary embodiment of the invention,
electrode array 300 is connected byflexible wires 320, as shown inFIG. 3B , toelements 330 andbattery 340, which constitute the elements ofstimulator 100. Alternatively,electrode array 300 is connected byflexible bus 325, as shown inFIG. 3C , toelements 330 andbattery 340, which constitute the elements ofstimulator 100. In some embodiments of the invention,battery 340 is not part of the elements ofsimulator 100. Alternative power sources tobattery 340 can include a capacitor, super capacitor, piezo-electric charging material, mechanical (induced by body or other organ or tissue movement) or chemical (such as ionic difference) power sources, coil or a coil having a ferrite core, and the like. In one exemplary embodiment of the invention action potential generated by neurons and nerve tissue across the nerve or muscle are gather via the electrode array and stored in a capacitor (not shown). The action potential translated into energy can be used to power the device of the invention. In an exemplary embodiment of the invention the housing is made of flexible bio compatible material such that the entire device is flexible. - The triangular tent shape of
array 300 and the other shapes disclosed herein, assists in forming contact betweenelectrodes 310 and the contact points at the base of the Genioglossus muscle, or more specifically near the compartments of the Genioglossus oblique fibers, and above the Geniohyoid muscle. Additionally, the triangular tent shape provide for a cavity or an opening underneath thereof that can be exploited to storeother elements 330 andbattery 340 or other power sources ofstimulator 100 by folding them up or placing them beneatharray 300 or within said housing (not shown). -
FIG. 3D is a schematic illustration offlexible electrode array 300 implanted at the base of the tongue, according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention. Optionally,electrode array 300 is designed so that when it is deployed,electrodes 310 will be in contact with theGenioglossus muscle 350 and more specifically adjacent to the Genioglossushorizontal fibers 350 and/or near theHypoglossal nerves 360, so thatelectrodes 310 will successfully be able to stimulate the Genioglossus horizontal compartment causing dilation of the pharynx during breathing. Optionally, the shape ofelectrode array 300 is especially efficient in stimulating theGenioglossus muscle 350, as this muscle has numerous motor end plates, located in various locations in contrast to many other muscles. -
FIGS. 4A-4E provide various exemplary shapes of electrode arrays to be used to position the electrode array in proximity with the muscles or nerves that are to be stimulated by the electrodes of the array. The exemplary shapes include: - 1. A
flat surface 400; - 2. A
cylinder 410; - 3. A 3 dimensional
curved surface 420 with electrodes on the inner side to match a cylindrical muscle/nerve; - 4. A
flexible electrode pad 430 with branches of electrodes extending from a common center; and - 5. A
flexible electrode pad 440 with branches of electrodes of various sizes extending from a common center. - Optionally, other shapes may be used to maximize contact between the electrodes and the muscles/nerves. In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the shape is designed to match the muscles/nerves that stimulator 100 is designed to stimulate.
-
FIG. 5 is a flow diagram 500 of a method of stimulating muscles or nerves usingimplantable stimulator 100 with an array of electrodes, according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention. In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, a medical practitioner implants (510) the device. The implantation process depends on the location and type of muscle/nerve to be stimulated. Optionally, due to the small size of stimulator 100 (e.g. with a length and width between 0.01 mm to 10 mm) a non-invasive procedure is preferable, for example by injecting the device using a hypodermic needle with local anesthesia only. Optionally, the use of a point and shoot insertion method is preferable, since it is more comfortable for the patient and less invasive. Optionally according to the present invention,stimulator 100 is advantageous since the multiplicity of electrodes relative to the number of contact points on the muscle/nerve and the ability to select the optimal electrodes for stimulation after implantation, reduce the need to adjust the position ofstimulator 100 responsive to actual stimulation during the insertion process. An example of use of astimulator 100 is in dealing with Obstructive Sleep Apnea patients. In an exemplary embodiment of the invention,stimulator 100 is implanted in the vicinity of the Hypoglossal nerve using a shallow transcutaneous approach. In other cases stimulator 100 is implanted into the Genioglossus muscle using an intraoral or transcutaneous/submandibular approach. - Optionally, after implanting
stimulator 100 the practitioner may adjust (520) the implanted stimulator responsive to an Ultrasound, MRI, CT, X-ray or other measurements before activating thestimulator 100. In some embodiments of the invention, the implantation is performed using a point and shoot process that does not require additional adjustments, however in some cases, usually depending on the type of stimulator and position of implantation in the patient's body further measurements may be required to verify accurate positioning, and further adjustments may be needed. In some embodiments of the invention, the implantation procedure is performed while using an imaging device (such as Ultrasound, MRI, CT, or X-ray) to guide the practitioner in locating the exact implantation site. - Once
stimulator 100 is positioned theelectrode array controller 120 dynamically selects (530) the electrodes fromelectrode array 110 that will be used to stimulate the muscle/nerve. - In some embodiments of the invention, the selection is performed manually by the practitioner, for example by communicating with stimulator 100 (e.g. with computer 180) and either instructing
stimulator 100 to activate single electrodes or groups of electrodes while observing the response, and/or instructingstimulator 100 to use theelectrode array 110 to measure electrical parameters such as resistance, conductance, or EMG signals, for each electrode or for groups of electrodes. Optionally, the practitioner may also measure a response via an external device, for example a surface EMG, fiber optic, manometer, polysomnograph, pulse oximeter, EEG, microphone. - In some embodiments of the invention, the selection may be performed automatically by
electrode array controller 120, whereinelectrode array controller 120 measures EMG signals, or other signals, and dynamically selects (530) the electrodes that will participate in the stimulation process responsive to the measurements. - In some embodiments of the invention,
stimulator 100 automatically, repeats the dynamic selection process before every use, or periodically (e.g. every day or every week or before the next use, or at predetermined intervals) to verify thatstimulator 100 has not moved and to remedy the situation if it has. Such predetermined intervals can be determined through a preprogrammed plan or reprogrammed when so required, or ad hoc as per each use. For example, the dynamic selection can be performed every few seconds or every few minutes or on an hourly basis and the like. - In some embodiments of the invention,
stimulator 100 is activated (550) responsive to various inputs accepted (540) bystimulator 100. Optionally, the inputs may be based on physiological parameters of the patient or may be based on commands from an external source such asexternal activation device 190. In an exemplary embodiment of the invention,external activation device 190 is used to activate the stimulator whenever the patient feels the need, for example when suffering pain or when interested that muscles controlled bystimulator 100 be activated. - Optionally, when treating OSA, the patient may activate
stimulator 100 when going to sleep, andstimulator 100 will perform muscle/nerve stimulation responsive to sensors that determine that the patient's tongue needs to be stimulated to enable the patient to breathe. Optionally,external activation device 190 may be a simple transmitter with one or more buttons or switches 195 to transmit signals tostimulator 100 and to select from a few options, for example to stimulate immediately, periodically or responsive to sensor measurements. Alternatively ageneral purpose computer 180 can be used toprogram stimulator 100 by transmitting simple or complex commands and receiving responses fromstimulator 100. In some embodiments of the invention,external activation device 190 supplies power tostimulator 100. Optionally,stimulator 100 may be activated (550) whenever power is provided. Alternatively, it may chargepower supply 160 and be activated (550) at a later time. - In some embodiments of the invention,
stimulator 100 may sense various physiological parameters of the patient withsensors 125, for example: - 1. Specific periodic vibrations or lack of vibrations from the patient's respiratory system;
- 2. Temperature in the vicinity of
stimulator 100, for example a higher temperature value responsive to the patient expiration in the vicinity of the implantedstimulator 100 and a lower temperature value responsive to the patient inspiration in the vicinity ofstimulator 100. A decrease in the temperature change may indicate reduction in breathing; - 3. Audio signals, for example, keeping track of the patient's heartbeat, breathing/snoring pattern, or breathing/snoring sounds. Optionally, a decrease in the volume of breathing sounds may indicate an OSA event;
- 4. EMG signals, for example, keeping track of the patient's muscle tone. Optionally, a decrease in the patient's muscle tone may indicate an OSA event. Optionally, an increase in the patient's respiratory auxiliary muscle tone may indicate an OSA event.
- In some embodiments of the invention, sensors are placed at other positions on the patient's body and they communicate wirelessly with
stimulator 100. - In some embodiments of the invention,
control 130 may perform a pre-programmed algorithm to weigh the results from various inputs and determine if to stimulate or not. Optionally,control 130 can be programmed to decide the specific stimulation protocol (e.g. pulse width, pulse amplitude, pulse shape). - In some embodiments of the invention,
stimulator 100 operates independently, without receiving any feedback. Optionally,stimulator 100 is pre-programmed to stimulate at specific times, for specific time duration, or to stimulate periodically, for example for 10 seconds every hour. - It should be appreciated that the above described methods and apparatus may be varied in many ways, including omitting or adding steps, changing the order of steps and the type of devices used. It should be appreciated that different features may be combined in different ways. In particular, not all the features shown above in a particular embodiment are necessary in every embodiment of the invention. Further combinations of the above features are also considered to be within the scope of some embodiments of the invention.
- It will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that the present invention is not limited to what has been particularly shown and described hereinabove. Rather the scope of the present invention is defined only by the claims, which follow.
Claims (34)
Priority Applications (27)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US12/581,907 US10806926B2 (en) | 2009-10-20 | 2009-10-20 | Implantable electrical stimulator |
AU2010309433A AU2010309433B2 (en) | 2009-10-20 | 2010-10-19 | Implantable electrical stimulator |
CA2803485A CA2803485C (en) | 2009-10-20 | 2010-10-19 | Implantable electrical stimulator |
EP10781533A EP2558158A1 (en) | 2009-10-20 | 2010-10-19 | Implantable electrical stimulator |
EP23170585.6A EP4218920A1 (en) | 2009-10-20 | 2010-10-19 | Implantable electrical stimulator |
PCT/IL2010/000856 WO2011048590A1 (en) | 2009-10-20 | 2010-10-19 | Implantable electrical stimulator |
US13/629,694 US8577472B2 (en) | 2009-10-20 | 2012-09-28 | Systems and methods for determining a sleep disorder based on positioning of the tongue |
US13/629,721 US8574164B2 (en) | 2009-10-20 | 2012-09-28 | Apparatus and method for detecting a sleep disordered breathing precursor |
US13/629,686 US8577464B2 (en) | 2009-10-20 | 2012-09-28 | Apparatus and methods for feedback-based nerve modulation |
IL223774A IL223774A (en) | 2009-10-20 | 2012-12-20 | Implantable electrical stimulator |
US14/041,598 US9409013B2 (en) | 2009-10-20 | 2013-09-30 | Method for controlling energy delivery as a function of degree of coupling |
US14/041,520 US8812113B2 (en) | 2009-10-20 | 2013-09-30 | Apparatus and methods for feedback based nerve modulation |
US14/306,990 US10716940B2 (en) | 2009-10-20 | 2014-06-17 | Implant unit for modulation of small diameter nerves |
US14/306,916 US9849289B2 (en) | 2009-10-20 | 2014-06-17 | Device and method for snoring detection and control |
US14/307,003 US9950166B2 (en) | 2009-10-20 | 2014-06-17 | Acred implant unit for modulation of nerves |
US14/307,040 US9463318B2 (en) | 2009-10-20 | 2014-06-17 | Treatment of sleep apnea via bilateral stimulation |
US14/451,362 US9248290B2 (en) | 2009-10-20 | 2014-08-04 | Apparatus and methods for feedback-based nerve modulation |
US14/884,977 US9415216B2 (en) | 2009-10-20 | 2015-10-16 | Devices for treatment of sleep apnea |
US14/884,964 US9415215B2 (en) | 2009-10-20 | 2015-10-16 | Methods for treatment of sleep apnea |
US14/992,817 US9550064B2 (en) | 2009-10-20 | 2016-01-11 | Apparatus and methods for feedback-based nerve modulation |
US15/231,468 US9943686B2 (en) | 2009-10-20 | 2016-08-08 | Method and device for treating sleep apnea based on tongue movement |
IL252231A IL252231B (en) | 2009-10-20 | 2017-05-11 | Implantable electrical stimulator |
US15/834,668 US10898717B2 (en) | 2009-10-20 | 2017-12-07 | Device and method for snoring detection and control |
US15/938,100 US10751537B2 (en) | 2009-10-20 | 2018-03-28 | Arced implant unit for modulation of nerves |
US15/942,251 US11273307B2 (en) | 2009-10-20 | 2018-03-30 | Method and device for treating sleep apnea |
US16/940,557 US11857791B2 (en) | 2009-10-20 | 2020-07-28 | Arced implant unit for modulation of nerves |
US17/022,832 US20200406030A1 (en) | 2009-10-20 | 2020-09-16 | Implantable electrical stimulator |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US12/581,907 US10806926B2 (en) | 2009-10-20 | 2009-10-20 | Implantable electrical stimulator |
Related Parent Applications (3)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US12/629,721 Continuation-In-Part US8244987B2 (en) | 2008-12-04 | 2009-12-02 | Memory access device including multiple processors |
US12/642,866 Continuation-In-Part US8585617B2 (en) | 2009-10-20 | 2009-12-21 | Diagnosis and prediction of obstructive sleep apnea |
US13/629,721 Continuation-In-Part US8574164B2 (en) | 2009-10-20 | 2012-09-28 | Apparatus and method for detecting a sleep disordered breathing precursor |
Related Child Applications (5)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US12/629,721 Continuation-In-Part US8244987B2 (en) | 2008-12-04 | 2009-12-02 | Memory access device including multiple processors |
US12/642,866 Continuation-In-Part US8585617B2 (en) | 2009-10-20 | 2009-12-21 | Diagnosis and prediction of obstructive sleep apnea |
US13/629,721 Continuation-In-Part US8574164B2 (en) | 2009-10-20 | 2012-09-28 | Apparatus and method for detecting a sleep disordered breathing precursor |
US13/629,686 Continuation-In-Part US8577464B2 (en) | 2009-10-20 | 2012-09-28 | Apparatus and methods for feedback-based nerve modulation |
US17/022,832 Continuation US20200406030A1 (en) | 2009-10-20 | 2020-09-16 | Implantable electrical stimulator |
Publications (2)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20110093036A1 true US20110093036A1 (en) | 2011-04-21 |
US10806926B2 US10806926B2 (en) | 2020-10-20 |
Family
ID=43754790
Family Applications (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US12/581,907 Active US10806926B2 (en) | 2009-10-20 | 2009-10-20 | Implantable electrical stimulator |
US17/022,832 Pending US20200406030A1 (en) | 2009-10-20 | 2020-09-16 | Implantable electrical stimulator |
Family Applications After (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US17/022,832 Pending US20200406030A1 (en) | 2009-10-20 | 2020-09-16 | Implantable electrical stimulator |
Country Status (6)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (2) | US10806926B2 (en) |
EP (2) | EP4218920A1 (en) |
AU (1) | AU2010309433B2 (en) |
CA (1) | CA2803485C (en) |
IL (2) | IL223774A (en) |
WO (1) | WO2011048590A1 (en) |
Cited By (86)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20110147046A1 (en) * | 2008-05-02 | 2011-06-23 | Medtronic, Inc. | Self expanding electrode cuff |
WO2013046048A2 (en) * | 2011-09-30 | 2013-04-04 | Adi Mashiach | Device and method for modulating nerves using parallel electric fields |
WO2014004526A1 (en) * | 2012-06-25 | 2014-01-03 | Niveus Medical, Inc. | Devices and systems for stimulation of tissues |
US20140031910A1 (en) * | 2012-06-14 | 2014-01-30 | Case Western Reserve University | System and method for stimulating motor units |
WO2014049448A2 (en) * | 2012-07-26 | 2014-04-03 | Adi Mashiach | Implant encapsulation |
US8755893B2 (en) | 2010-06-08 | 2014-06-17 | Bluewind Medical Ltd. | Tibial nerve stimulation |
US8855783B2 (en) | 2011-09-09 | 2014-10-07 | Enopace Biomedical Ltd. | Detector-based arterial stimulation |
US8874220B2 (en) * | 2012-12-13 | 2014-10-28 | Nuraleve Inc. | Neurostimulation system, device, and method |
US8892210B2 (en) | 2008-07-02 | 2014-11-18 | Niveus Medical, Inc. | Devices, systems, and methods for automated optimization of energy delivery |
US8938299B2 (en) | 2008-11-19 | 2015-01-20 | Inspire Medical Systems, Inc. | System for treating sleep disordered breathing |
US8983572B2 (en) | 2010-10-29 | 2015-03-17 | Inspire Medical Systems, Inc. | System and method for patient selection in treating sleep disordered breathing |
WO2015039108A3 (en) * | 2013-09-16 | 2015-04-09 | The Board Of Trustees Of The Leland Stanford Junior University | Multi-element coupler for generation of electromagnetic energy |
US9072889B1 (en) * | 2014-12-03 | 2015-07-07 | Neurohabilitation Corporation | Systems for providing non-invasive neurorehabilitation of a patient |
US9126039B2 (en) | 2009-11-11 | 2015-09-08 | Niveus Medical, Inc. | Synergistic muscle activation device |
US9149386B2 (en) | 2008-08-19 | 2015-10-06 | Niveus Medical, Inc. | Devices and systems for stimulation of tissues |
US9186504B2 (en) | 2010-11-15 | 2015-11-17 | Rainbow Medical Ltd | Sleep apnea treatment |
US9227051B1 (en) | 2014-12-03 | 2016-01-05 | Neurohabilitation Corporation | Devices for delivering non-invasive neuromodulation to a patient |
USD749746S1 (en) | 2014-12-03 | 2016-02-16 | Neurohabilitation Corporation | Non-invasive neurostimulation device |
USD750267S1 (en) | 2014-12-03 | 2016-02-23 | Neurohabilitation Corporation | Non-invasive neurostimulation device |
USD750264S1 (en) | 2014-12-03 | 2016-02-23 | Neurohabilitation Corporation | Non-invasive neurostimulation device |
USD750265S1 (en) | 2014-12-03 | 2016-02-23 | Neurohabilitation Corporation | Non-invasive neurostimulation device |
USD750268S1 (en) | 2014-12-03 | 2016-02-23 | Neurohabilitation Corporation | Non-invasive neurostimulation device |
USD750266S1 (en) | 2014-12-03 | 2016-02-23 | Neurohabilitation Corporation | Non-invasive neurostimulation device |
USD750794S1 (en) | 2014-12-03 | 2016-03-01 | Neurohabilitation Corporation | Non-invasive neurostimulation device |
US9272133B1 (en) | 2014-12-03 | 2016-03-01 | Neurohabilitation Corporation | Methods of manufacturing devices for the neurorehabilitation of a patient |
USD751214S1 (en) | 2014-12-03 | 2016-03-08 | Neurohabilitation Corporation | Non-invasive neurostimulation device |
USD751213S1 (en) | 2014-12-03 | 2016-03-08 | Neurohabilitation Corporation | Non-invasive neurostimulation device |
US9283377B1 (en) | 2014-12-03 | 2016-03-15 | Neurohabilitation Corporation | Devices for delivering non-invasive neuromodulation to a patient |
USD751722S1 (en) | 2014-12-03 | 2016-03-15 | Neurohabilitation Corporation | Non-invasive neurostimulation device |
USD752236S1 (en) | 2014-12-03 | 2016-03-22 | Neurohabilitation Corporation | Non-invasive neurostimulation device |
USD752766S1 (en) | 2014-12-03 | 2016-03-29 | Neurohabilitation Corporation | Non-invasive neurostimulation device |
USD753316S1 (en) | 2014-12-03 | 2016-04-05 | Neurohabilitation Corporation | Non-invasive neurostimulation device |
USD753315S1 (en) | 2014-12-03 | 2016-04-05 | Neurohabilitation Corporation | Non-invasive neurostimulation device |
USD759830S1 (en) | 2014-12-03 | 2016-06-21 | Neurohabilitation Corporation | Non-invasive neurostimulation device |
USD760397S1 (en) | 2014-12-03 | 2016-06-28 | Neurohabilitation Corporation | Non-invasive neurostimulation device |
US9409013B2 (en) | 2009-10-20 | 2016-08-09 | Nyxoah SA | Method for controlling energy delivery as a function of degree of coupling |
US9415215B2 (en) | 2009-10-20 | 2016-08-16 | Nyxoah SA | Methods for treatment of sleep apnea |
US9415210B2 (en) | 2014-12-03 | 2016-08-16 | Neurohabilitation Corporation | Methods of manufacturing devices for the neurorehabilitation of a patient |
US9415209B2 (en) | 2014-12-03 | 2016-08-16 | Neurohabilitation Corporation | Methods of manufacturing devices for the neurorehabilitation of a patient |
AU2013263068B2 (en) * | 2012-05-15 | 2016-09-29 | Imthera Medical, Inc. | Stimulation of a hypoglossal nerve for controlling the position of a patient's tongue |
US9457186B2 (en) | 2010-11-15 | 2016-10-04 | Bluewind Medical Ltd. | Bilateral feedback |
US9486628B2 (en) | 2009-03-31 | 2016-11-08 | Inspire Medical Systems, Inc. | Percutaneous access for systems and methods of treating sleep apnea |
US9564777B2 (en) | 2014-05-18 | 2017-02-07 | NeuSpera Medical Inc. | Wireless energy transfer system for an implantable medical device using a midfield coupler |
US9597521B2 (en) | 2015-01-21 | 2017-03-21 | Bluewind Medical Ltd. | Transmitting coils for neurostimulation |
US9616222B2 (en) | 2014-12-03 | 2017-04-11 | Neurohabilitation Corporation | Systems for providing non-invasive neurorehabilitation of a patient |
US9656060B2 (en) | 2014-12-03 | 2017-05-23 | Neurohabilitation Corporation | Methods of manufacturing devices for the neurorehabilitation of a patient |
US9713707B2 (en) | 2015-11-12 | 2017-07-25 | Bluewind Medical Ltd. | Inhibition of implant migration |
US9757560B2 (en) | 2013-11-19 | 2017-09-12 | The Cleveland Clinic Foundation | System and method for treating obstructive sleep apnea |
US9764146B2 (en) | 2015-01-21 | 2017-09-19 | Bluewind Medical Ltd. | Extracorporeal implant controllers |
US9782589B2 (en) | 2015-06-10 | 2017-10-10 | Bluewind Medical Ltd. | Implantable electrostimulator for improving blood flow |
US9789306B2 (en) | 2014-12-03 | 2017-10-17 | Neurohabilitation Corporation | Systems and methods for providing non-invasive neurorehabilitation of a patient |
US9861812B2 (en) | 2012-12-06 | 2018-01-09 | Blue Wind Medical Ltd. | Delivery of implantable neurostimulators |
US9884195B2 (en) | 2012-06-14 | 2018-02-06 | Case Western Reserve University | Delaying the onset of muscle fatigue associated with functional electrical stimulation |
US9889299B2 (en) | 2008-10-01 | 2018-02-13 | Inspire Medical Systems, Inc. | Transvenous method of treating sleep apnea |
US9888864B2 (en) | 2010-03-12 | 2018-02-13 | Inspire Medical Systems, Inc. | Method and system for identifying a location for nerve stimulation |
US9981127B2 (en) | 2014-12-03 | 2018-05-29 | Neurohabilitation Corporation | Systems and methods for providing non-invasive neurorehabilitation of a patient |
US9988017B2 (en) * | 2015-04-29 | 2018-06-05 | Hella Kgaa Hueck & Co. | Access and driver authentication system with increased security against relay attacks using movement sensor technology integrated into the authentication tool |
US9993640B2 (en) | 2014-12-03 | 2018-06-12 | Neurohabilitation Corporation | Devices for delivering non-invasive neuromodulation to a patient |
US10004913B2 (en) | 2014-03-03 | 2018-06-26 | The Board Of Trustees Of The Leland Stanford Junior University | Methods and apparatus for power conversion and data transmission in implantable sensors, stimulators, and actuators |
US10004896B2 (en) | 2015-01-21 | 2018-06-26 | Bluewind Medical Ltd. | Anchors and implant devices |
US10084612B2 (en) * | 2016-10-05 | 2018-09-25 | International Business Machines Corporation | Remote control with muscle sensor and alerting sensor |
US10105540B2 (en) | 2015-11-09 | 2018-10-23 | Bluewind Medical Ltd. | Optimization of application of current |
US10124178B2 (en) | 2016-11-23 | 2018-11-13 | Bluewind Medical Ltd. | Implant and delivery tool therefor |
US10195426B2 (en) | 2014-01-07 | 2019-02-05 | Invicta Medical, Inc. | Method and apparatus for treating sleep apnea |
US10195428B2 (en) | 2015-09-29 | 2019-02-05 | Medtronic, Inc. | Neural stimulation to treat sleep apnea |
US10426424B2 (en) | 2017-11-21 | 2019-10-01 | General Electric Company | System and method for generating and performing imaging protocol simulations |
US10434329B2 (en) | 2014-05-09 | 2019-10-08 | The Board Of Trustees Of The Leland Stanford Junior University | Autofocus wireless power transfer to implantable devices in freely moving animals |
US10583297B2 (en) | 2011-08-11 | 2020-03-10 | Inspire Medical Systems, Inc. | Method and system for applying stimulation in treating sleep disordered breathing |
CN110944713A (en) * | 2017-06-23 | 2020-03-31 | Gsk消费者健康有限公司 | Device and method for button-less control of wearable transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulator using interactive gestures and other means |
US10653888B2 (en) | 2012-01-26 | 2020-05-19 | Bluewind Medical Ltd | Wireless neurostimulators |
US10898709B2 (en) | 2015-03-19 | 2021-01-26 | Inspire Medical Systems, Inc. | Stimulation for treating sleep disordered breathing |
US10932682B2 (en) | 2008-05-15 | 2021-03-02 | Inspire Medical Systems, Inc. | Method and apparatus for sensing respiratory pressure in an implantable stimulation system |
US11213685B2 (en) | 2017-06-13 | 2022-01-04 | Bluewind Medical Ltd. | Antenna configuration |
US11266837B2 (en) | 2019-03-06 | 2022-03-08 | Medtronic Xomed, Inc. | Position sensitive lingual muscle simulation system for obstructive sleep apnea |
US11291842B2 (en) | 2019-05-02 | 2022-04-05 | Xii Medical, Inc. | Systems and methods for improving sleep disordered breathing |
US11298540B2 (en) * | 2017-08-11 | 2022-04-12 | Inspire Medical Systems, Inc. | Cuff electrode |
US11338148B2 (en) | 2015-05-15 | 2022-05-24 | NeuSpera Medical Inc. | External power devices and systems |
CN114795230A (en) * | 2022-03-29 | 2022-07-29 | 北京理工大学 | Implantable wireless neural sensor for recording electroencephalogram signals |
US11400299B1 (en) | 2021-09-14 | 2022-08-02 | Rainbow Medical Ltd. | Flexible antenna for stimulator |
US11420061B2 (en) | 2019-10-15 | 2022-08-23 | Xii Medical, Inc. | Biased neuromodulation lead and method of using same |
US11491324B2 (en) | 2019-10-16 | 2022-11-08 | Invicta Medical, Inc. | Adjustable devices for treating sleep apnea, and associated systems and methods |
WO2022266591A1 (en) * | 2021-06-14 | 2022-12-22 | Rehabtronics Inc. | Systems for mitigating pressure injuries |
US11617888B2 (en) | 2020-11-04 | 2023-04-04 | Invicta Medical, Inc. | Implantable electrodes with remote power delivery for treating sleep apnea, and associated systems and methods |
US11691010B2 (en) | 2021-01-13 | 2023-07-04 | Xii Medical, Inc. | Systems and methods for improving sleep disordered breathing |
US11857791B2 (en) * | 2009-10-20 | 2024-01-02 | Nyxoah SA | Arced implant unit for modulation of nerves |
US11964154B1 (en) | 2023-06-07 | 2024-04-23 | Invicta Medical, Inc. | Signal delivery devices to treat sleep apnea, and associated methods and systems |
Citations (42)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US727749A (en) * | 1901-10-29 | 1903-05-12 | William E Cook | Rotary pump. |
US4837049A (en) * | 1986-06-17 | 1989-06-06 | Alfred E. Mann Foundation For Scientific Research | Method of making an electrode array |
US5174287A (en) * | 1991-05-28 | 1992-12-29 | Medtronic, Inc. | Airway feedback measurement system responsive to detected inspiration and obstructive apnea event |
US5485851A (en) * | 1994-09-21 | 1996-01-23 | Medtronic, Inc. | Method and apparatus for arousal detection |
US5540733A (en) * | 1994-09-21 | 1996-07-30 | Medtronic, Inc. | Method and apparatus for detecting and treating obstructive sleep apnea |
US6038480A (en) * | 1996-04-04 | 2000-03-14 | Medtronic, Inc. | Living tissue stimulation and recording techniques with local control of active sites |
US6051017A (en) * | 1996-02-20 | 2000-04-18 | Advanced Bionics Corporation | Implantable microstimulator and systems employing the same |
US6240316B1 (en) * | 1998-08-14 | 2001-05-29 | Advanced Bionics Corporation | Implantable microstimulation system for treatment of sleep apnea |
US6275737B1 (en) * | 1998-10-14 | 2001-08-14 | Advanced Bionics Corporation | Transcutaneous transmission pouch |
US20010018547A1 (en) * | 1997-10-17 | 2001-08-30 | Mechlenburg Douglas M. | Muscle stimulating device and method for diagnosing and treating a breathing disorder |
US6393325B1 (en) * | 1999-01-07 | 2002-05-21 | Advanced Bionics Corporation | Directional programming for implantable electrode arrays |
US6587725B1 (en) * | 1998-07-27 | 2003-07-01 | Dominique Durand | Method and apparatus for closed-loop stimulation of the hypoglossal nerve in human patients to treat obstructive sleep apnea |
US6625494B2 (en) * | 2001-03-30 | 2003-09-23 | Neurocontrol Corporation | Systems and methods for performing prosthetic or therapeutic neuromuscular stimulation using a universal external controller providing different selectable neuromuscular stimulation functions |
US6638767B2 (en) * | 1996-05-01 | 2003-10-28 | Imarx Pharmaceutical Corporation | Methods for delivering compounds into a cell |
US20040059392A1 (en) * | 2002-06-28 | 2004-03-25 | Jordi Parramon | Microstimulator having self-contained power source |
US20040153127A1 (en) * | 2003-01-15 | 2004-08-05 | Alfred E. Mann Institute For Biomedical Engineering At The University Of Southern Californ | Treatments for snoring using injectable neuromuscular stimulators |
US20040172089A1 (en) * | 2001-01-30 | 2004-09-02 | Whitehurst Todd K. | Fully implantable miniature neurostimulator for stimulation as a therapy for epilepsy |
US20050010265A1 (en) * | 2003-04-02 | 2005-01-13 | Neurostream Technologies Inc. | Fully implantable nerve signal sensing and stimulation device and method for treating foot drop and other neurological disorders |
US20050043772A1 (en) * | 2003-08-18 | 2005-02-24 | Stahmann Jeffrey E. | Therapy triggered by prediction of disordered breathing |
US20050070971A1 (en) * | 2003-08-01 | 2005-03-31 | Brad Fowler | Apparatus and methods for applying neural stimulation to a patient |
US20050187584A1 (en) * | 2001-01-16 | 2005-08-25 | Stephen Denker | Vagal nerve stimulation using vascular implanted devices for treatment of atrial fibrillation |
US20070015022A1 (en) * | 2005-07-12 | 2007-01-18 | Samsung Sdi Co., Ltd. | Ion conductive composite membrane using inorganic conductor and method of manufacturing the same |
US20070073357A1 (en) * | 2005-06-09 | 2007-03-29 | Medtronic, Inc. | Peripheral nerve field stimulation and spinal cord stimulation |
US20070173893A1 (en) * | 2000-10-20 | 2007-07-26 | Pitts Walter C | Method and apparatus for preventing obstructive sleep apnea |
US7272443B2 (en) * | 2004-03-26 | 2007-09-18 | Pacesetter, Inc. | System and method for predicting a heart condition based on impedance values using an implantable medical device |
US20080021506A1 (en) * | 2006-05-09 | 2008-01-24 | Massachusetts General Hospital | Method and device for the electrical treatment of sleep apnea and snoring |
US20080027503A1 (en) * | 2006-07-26 | 2008-01-31 | Cyberonics, Inc. | Vagus Nerve Stimulation by Electrical Signals for Controlling Cerebellar Tremor |
US20080041398A1 (en) * | 2006-04-20 | 2008-02-21 | Pavad Medical Inc. | Tongue Stabilization Device and Methods of Using the Same |
US20080064946A1 (en) * | 2005-04-28 | 2008-03-13 | Greenberg Robert J | Flexible Circuit Electrode Array |
US20080103407A1 (en) * | 2006-10-13 | 2008-05-01 | Apnex Medical, Inc. | Obstructive sleep apnea treatment devices, systems and methods |
US20080109046A1 (en) * | 2006-02-16 | 2008-05-08 | Lima Marcelo G | RFID-based apparatus, system, and method for therapeutic treatment of obstructive sleep apnea |
US20080132962A1 (en) * | 2006-12-01 | 2008-06-05 | Diubaldi Anthony | System and method for affecting gatric functions |
US7447551B2 (en) * | 2004-12-30 | 2008-11-04 | Industrial Technology Research Institute | Flexible implantable electrical stimulator array |
US20090078274A1 (en) * | 2004-09-21 | 2009-03-26 | Pavad Medical, Inc. | Implantable Obstructive Sleep Apnea Sensor |
US7680536B2 (en) * | 2006-08-17 | 2010-03-16 | Cardiac Pacemakers, Inc. | Capture threshold estimation for alternate pacing vectors |
US20100094379A1 (en) * | 2008-10-09 | 2010-04-15 | Imthera Medical, Inc. | Method of Stimulating a Hypoglossal Nerve for Controlling the Position of a Patient's Tongue |
US20100114190A1 (en) * | 2008-10-03 | 2010-05-06 | Lockheed Martin Corporation | Nerve stimulator and method using simultaneous electrical and optical signals |
US20100137948A1 (en) * | 2008-12-03 | 2010-06-03 | Boston Scientific Neuromodulation Corporation | External charger with adjustable alignment indicator |
US20100191136A1 (en) * | 2009-01-26 | 2010-07-29 | Wolford Danette K | System, pad and method for monitoring a sleeping person to detect an apnea state condition |
US20100228313A1 (en) * | 2009-03-03 | 2010-09-09 | Medtronic, Inc. | Electrical stimulation therapy to promote gastric distention for obesity management |
US20100292527A1 (en) * | 2007-07-31 | 2010-11-18 | Schneider M Bret | Device and method for hypertension treatment by non-invasive stimulation to vascular baroreceptors |
US20110065979A1 (en) * | 2009-09-14 | 2011-03-17 | Sleep Methods | System and method for training and promoting a conditioned reflex intervention during sleep |
Family Cites Families (6)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
EP0663137B1 (en) * | 1993-07-01 | 2002-10-02 | The University Of Melbourne | Cochlear implant devices |
US6636767B1 (en) | 1999-09-29 | 2003-10-21 | Restore Medical, Inc. | Implanatable stimulation device for snoring treatment |
US7680538B2 (en) | 2005-03-31 | 2010-03-16 | Case Western Reserve University | Method of treating obstructive sleep apnea using electrical nerve stimulation |
US7890178B2 (en) | 2006-12-15 | 2011-02-15 | Medtronic Xomed, Inc. | Method and apparatus for assisting deglutition |
US8585617B2 (en) | 2009-12-21 | 2013-11-19 | Nyxoah SA | Diagnosis and prediction of obstructive sleep apnea |
WO2012003451A2 (en) * | 2010-07-01 | 2012-01-05 | Stimdesigns Llc | Universal closed-loop electrical stimulation system |
-
2009
- 2009-10-20 US US12/581,907 patent/US10806926B2/en active Active
-
2010
- 2010-10-19 EP EP23170585.6A patent/EP4218920A1/en active Pending
- 2010-10-19 WO PCT/IL2010/000856 patent/WO2011048590A1/en active Application Filing
- 2010-10-19 AU AU2010309433A patent/AU2010309433B2/en active Active
- 2010-10-19 EP EP10781533A patent/EP2558158A1/en not_active Ceased
- 2010-10-19 CA CA2803485A patent/CA2803485C/en active Active
-
2012
- 2012-12-20 IL IL223774A patent/IL223774A/en active IP Right Grant
-
2017
- 2017-05-11 IL IL252231A patent/IL252231B/en active IP Right Grant
-
2020
- 2020-09-16 US US17/022,832 patent/US20200406030A1/en active Pending
Patent Citations (46)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US727749A (en) * | 1901-10-29 | 1903-05-12 | William E Cook | Rotary pump. |
US4837049A (en) * | 1986-06-17 | 1989-06-06 | Alfred E. Mann Foundation For Scientific Research | Method of making an electrode array |
US5174287A (en) * | 1991-05-28 | 1992-12-29 | Medtronic, Inc. | Airway feedback measurement system responsive to detected inspiration and obstructive apnea event |
US5485851A (en) * | 1994-09-21 | 1996-01-23 | Medtronic, Inc. | Method and apparatus for arousal detection |
US5540733A (en) * | 1994-09-21 | 1996-07-30 | Medtronic, Inc. | Method and apparatus for detecting and treating obstructive sleep apnea |
US6051017A (en) * | 1996-02-20 | 2000-04-18 | Advanced Bionics Corporation | Implantable microstimulator and systems employing the same |
US6038480A (en) * | 1996-04-04 | 2000-03-14 | Medtronic, Inc. | Living tissue stimulation and recording techniques with local control of active sites |
US6638767B2 (en) * | 1996-05-01 | 2003-10-28 | Imarx Pharmaceutical Corporation | Methods for delivering compounds into a cell |
US20010018547A1 (en) * | 1997-10-17 | 2001-08-30 | Mechlenburg Douglas M. | Muscle stimulating device and method for diagnosing and treating a breathing disorder |
US6587725B1 (en) * | 1998-07-27 | 2003-07-01 | Dominique Durand | Method and apparatus for closed-loop stimulation of the hypoglossal nerve in human patients to treat obstructive sleep apnea |
US6345202B2 (en) * | 1998-08-14 | 2002-02-05 | Advanced Bionics Corporation | Method of treating obstructive sleep apnea using implantable electrodes |
US6240316B1 (en) * | 1998-08-14 | 2001-05-29 | Advanced Bionics Corporation | Implantable microstimulation system for treatment of sleep apnea |
US6275737B1 (en) * | 1998-10-14 | 2001-08-14 | Advanced Bionics Corporation | Transcutaneous transmission pouch |
US6393325B1 (en) * | 1999-01-07 | 2002-05-21 | Advanced Bionics Corporation | Directional programming for implantable electrode arrays |
US20070173893A1 (en) * | 2000-10-20 | 2007-07-26 | Pitts Walter C | Method and apparatus for preventing obstructive sleep apnea |
US20050187584A1 (en) * | 2001-01-16 | 2005-08-25 | Stephen Denker | Vagal nerve stimulation using vascular implanted devices for treatment of atrial fibrillation |
US20040172089A1 (en) * | 2001-01-30 | 2004-09-02 | Whitehurst Todd K. | Fully implantable miniature neurostimulator for stimulation as a therapy for epilepsy |
US6625494B2 (en) * | 2001-03-30 | 2003-09-23 | Neurocontrol Corporation | Systems and methods for performing prosthetic or therapeutic neuromuscular stimulation using a universal external controller providing different selectable neuromuscular stimulation functions |
US20040059392A1 (en) * | 2002-06-28 | 2004-03-25 | Jordi Parramon | Microstimulator having self-contained power source |
US20040153127A1 (en) * | 2003-01-15 | 2004-08-05 | Alfred E. Mann Institute For Biomedical Engineering At The University Of Southern Californ | Treatments for snoring using injectable neuromuscular stimulators |
US20050010265A1 (en) * | 2003-04-02 | 2005-01-13 | Neurostream Technologies Inc. | Fully implantable nerve signal sensing and stimulation device and method for treating foot drop and other neurological disorders |
US20050070971A1 (en) * | 2003-08-01 | 2005-03-31 | Brad Fowler | Apparatus and methods for applying neural stimulation to a patient |
US20050043772A1 (en) * | 2003-08-18 | 2005-02-24 | Stahmann Jeffrey E. | Therapy triggered by prediction of disordered breathing |
US7272443B2 (en) * | 2004-03-26 | 2007-09-18 | Pacesetter, Inc. | System and method for predicting a heart condition based on impedance values using an implantable medical device |
US20090078274A1 (en) * | 2004-09-21 | 2009-03-26 | Pavad Medical, Inc. | Implantable Obstructive Sleep Apnea Sensor |
US7447551B2 (en) * | 2004-12-30 | 2008-11-04 | Industrial Technology Research Institute | Flexible implantable electrical stimulator array |
US20080064946A1 (en) * | 2005-04-28 | 2008-03-13 | Greenberg Robert J | Flexible Circuit Electrode Array |
US20070073357A1 (en) * | 2005-06-09 | 2007-03-29 | Medtronic, Inc. | Peripheral nerve field stimulation and spinal cord stimulation |
US20070015022A1 (en) * | 2005-07-12 | 2007-01-18 | Samsung Sdi Co., Ltd. | Ion conductive composite membrane using inorganic conductor and method of manufacturing the same |
US7725195B2 (en) * | 2006-02-16 | 2010-05-25 | Imthera Medical, Inc. | RFID-based apparatus, system, and method for therapeutic treatment of obstructive sleep apnea |
US20080109046A1 (en) * | 2006-02-16 | 2008-05-08 | Lima Marcelo G | RFID-based apparatus, system, and method for therapeutic treatment of obstructive sleep apnea |
US20080041398A1 (en) * | 2006-04-20 | 2008-02-21 | Pavad Medical Inc. | Tongue Stabilization Device and Methods of Using the Same |
US20080021506A1 (en) * | 2006-05-09 | 2008-01-24 | Massachusetts General Hospital | Method and device for the electrical treatment of sleep apnea and snoring |
US20080027503A1 (en) * | 2006-07-26 | 2008-01-31 | Cyberonics, Inc. | Vagus Nerve Stimulation by Electrical Signals for Controlling Cerebellar Tremor |
US7680536B2 (en) * | 2006-08-17 | 2010-03-16 | Cardiac Pacemakers, Inc. | Capture threshold estimation for alternate pacing vectors |
US7809442B2 (en) * | 2006-10-13 | 2010-10-05 | Apnex Medical, Inc. | Obstructive sleep apnea treatment devices, systems and methods |
US20080103407A1 (en) * | 2006-10-13 | 2008-05-01 | Apnex Medical, Inc. | Obstructive sleep apnea treatment devices, systems and methods |
US20110071591A1 (en) * | 2006-10-13 | 2011-03-24 | Apnex Medical, Inc. | Obstructive Sleep Apnea Treatment Devices, Systems and Methods |
US20080132962A1 (en) * | 2006-12-01 | 2008-06-05 | Diubaldi Anthony | System and method for affecting gatric functions |
US20100292527A1 (en) * | 2007-07-31 | 2010-11-18 | Schneider M Bret | Device and method for hypertension treatment by non-invasive stimulation to vascular baroreceptors |
US20100114190A1 (en) * | 2008-10-03 | 2010-05-06 | Lockheed Martin Corporation | Nerve stimulator and method using simultaneous electrical and optical signals |
US20100094379A1 (en) * | 2008-10-09 | 2010-04-15 | Imthera Medical, Inc. | Method of Stimulating a Hypoglossal Nerve for Controlling the Position of a Patient's Tongue |
US20100137948A1 (en) * | 2008-12-03 | 2010-06-03 | Boston Scientific Neuromodulation Corporation | External charger with adjustable alignment indicator |
US20100191136A1 (en) * | 2009-01-26 | 2010-07-29 | Wolford Danette K | System, pad and method for monitoring a sleeping person to detect an apnea state condition |
US20100228313A1 (en) * | 2009-03-03 | 2010-09-09 | Medtronic, Inc. | Electrical stimulation therapy to promote gastric distention for obesity management |
US20110065979A1 (en) * | 2009-09-14 | 2011-03-17 | Sleep Methods | System and method for training and promoting a conditioned reflex intervention during sleep |
Cited By (177)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US9227053B2 (en) | 2008-05-02 | 2016-01-05 | Medtronic, Inc. | Self expanding electrode cuff |
US20110147046A1 (en) * | 2008-05-02 | 2011-06-23 | Medtronic, Inc. | Self expanding electrode cuff |
US10932682B2 (en) | 2008-05-15 | 2021-03-02 | Inspire Medical Systems, Inc. | Method and apparatus for sensing respiratory pressure in an implantable stimulation system |
US8892210B2 (en) | 2008-07-02 | 2014-11-18 | Niveus Medical, Inc. | Devices, systems, and methods for automated optimization of energy delivery |
US9532899B2 (en) | 2008-08-19 | 2017-01-03 | Niveus Medical, Inc. | Devices and systems for stimulation of tissue |
US9149386B2 (en) | 2008-08-19 | 2015-10-06 | Niveus Medical, Inc. | Devices and systems for stimulation of tissues |
US11806537B2 (en) | 2008-10-01 | 2023-11-07 | Inspire Medical Systems, Inc. | Transvenous method of treating sleep apnea |
US11083899B2 (en) | 2008-10-01 | 2021-08-10 | Inspire Medical Systems, Inc. | Transvenous method of treating sleep apnea |
US9889299B2 (en) | 2008-10-01 | 2018-02-13 | Inspire Medical Systems, Inc. | Transvenous method of treating sleep apnea |
US8938299B2 (en) | 2008-11-19 | 2015-01-20 | Inspire Medical Systems, Inc. | System for treating sleep disordered breathing |
US10888267B2 (en) | 2008-11-19 | 2021-01-12 | Inspire Medical Systems, Inc. | Method of treating sleep disordered breathing |
US10543366B2 (en) | 2009-03-31 | 2020-01-28 | Inspire Medical Systems, Inc. | Percutaneous access for systems and methods of treating sleep-related disordered breathing |
US9486628B2 (en) | 2009-03-31 | 2016-11-08 | Inspire Medical Systems, Inc. | Percutaneous access for systems and methods of treating sleep apnea |
US8577472B2 (en) | 2009-10-20 | 2013-11-05 | Nyxoah SA | Systems and methods for determining a sleep disorder based on positioning of the tongue |
US9943686B2 (en) | 2009-10-20 | 2018-04-17 | Nyxoah SA | Method and device for treating sleep apnea based on tongue movement |
US9415215B2 (en) | 2009-10-20 | 2016-08-16 | Nyxoah SA | Methods for treatment of sleep apnea |
US9409013B2 (en) | 2009-10-20 | 2016-08-09 | Nyxoah SA | Method for controlling energy delivery as a function of degree of coupling |
US9415216B2 (en) | 2009-10-20 | 2016-08-16 | Nyxoah SA | Devices for treatment of sleep apnea |
US11857791B2 (en) * | 2009-10-20 | 2024-01-02 | Nyxoah SA | Arced implant unit for modulation of nerves |
US8577464B2 (en) | 2009-10-20 | 2013-11-05 | Nyxoah SA | Apparatus and methods for feedback-based nerve modulation |
US9550064B2 (en) | 2009-10-20 | 2017-01-24 | Adi Mashiach | Apparatus and methods for feedback-based nerve modulation |
US8574164B2 (en) | 2009-10-20 | 2013-11-05 | Nyxoah SA | Apparatus and method for detecting a sleep disordered breathing precursor |
US11273307B2 (en) | 2009-10-20 | 2022-03-15 | Nyxoah SA | Method and device for treating sleep apnea |
US9126039B2 (en) | 2009-11-11 | 2015-09-08 | Niveus Medical, Inc. | Synergistic muscle activation device |
US10478622B2 (en) | 2009-11-11 | 2019-11-19 | Sage Products, Llc | Synergistic muscle activation device |
US11839763B2 (en) | 2009-11-11 | 2023-12-12 | Sage Products, Llc | Synergistic muscle activation device |
US11304648B2 (en) | 2010-03-12 | 2022-04-19 | Inspire Medical Systems, Inc. | Method and system for identifying a location for nerve stimulation |
US9888864B2 (en) | 2010-03-12 | 2018-02-13 | Inspire Medical Systems, Inc. | Method and system for identifying a location for nerve stimulation |
US8755893B2 (en) | 2010-06-08 | 2014-06-17 | Bluewind Medical Ltd. | Tibial nerve stimulation |
US8983572B2 (en) | 2010-10-29 | 2015-03-17 | Inspire Medical Systems, Inc. | System and method for patient selection in treating sleep disordered breathing |
US9457186B2 (en) | 2010-11-15 | 2016-10-04 | Bluewind Medical Ltd. | Bilateral feedback |
US9186504B2 (en) | 2010-11-15 | 2015-11-17 | Rainbow Medical Ltd | Sleep apnea treatment |
US11511117B2 (en) | 2011-08-11 | 2022-11-29 | Inspire Medical Systems, Inc. | Method and system for applying stimulation in treating sleep disordered breathing |
US10583297B2 (en) | 2011-08-11 | 2020-03-10 | Inspire Medical Systems, Inc. | Method and system for applying stimulation in treating sleep disordered breathing |
US8855783B2 (en) | 2011-09-09 | 2014-10-07 | Enopace Biomedical Ltd. | Detector-based arterial stimulation |
US8929999B2 (en) | 2011-09-30 | 2015-01-06 | Adi Maschiach | Electrode configuration for implantable modulator |
US9421372B2 (en) | 2011-09-30 | 2016-08-23 | Adi Mashiach | Head pain management device having an antenna |
AU2012313974B2 (en) * | 2011-09-30 | 2017-06-22 | Nyxoah SA | Device and method for modulating nerves using parallel electric fields |
AU2012313970B2 (en) * | 2011-09-30 | 2017-06-29 | Nyxoah SA | Modulator apparatus configured for implantation |
US9061151B2 (en) | 2011-09-30 | 2015-06-23 | Adi Mashiach | Apparatus and method to control an implant |
US9044612B2 (en) | 2011-09-30 | 2015-06-02 | Adi Mashiach | Apparatus and method for extending implant life using a dual power scheme |
US9248291B2 (en) | 2011-09-30 | 2016-02-02 | Adi Mashiach | Hypertension therapy implant apparatus |
WO2013046048A2 (en) * | 2011-09-30 | 2013-04-04 | Adi Mashiach | Device and method for modulating nerves using parallel electric fields |
WO2013046048A3 (en) * | 2011-09-30 | 2013-07-25 | Adi Mashiach | Device and method for modulating nerves using parallel electric fields |
US8577466B2 (en) | 2011-09-30 | 2013-11-05 | Nyxoah SA | System and method for nerve modulation using noncontacting electrodes |
US8989868B2 (en) | 2011-09-30 | 2015-03-24 | Hyllio SA | Apparatus and method for controlling energy delivery as a function of degree of coupling |
US8577465B2 (en) | 2011-09-30 | 2013-11-05 | Nyxoah SA | Modulator apparatus configured for implantation |
US9878159B2 (en) | 2011-09-30 | 2018-01-30 | Adi Mashiach | Hypertension therapy implant apparatus |
US8577478B2 (en) | 2011-09-30 | 2013-11-05 | Nyxoah SA | Antenna providing variable communication with an implant |
US9895540B2 (en) | 2011-09-30 | 2018-02-20 | Nyxoah SA | Devices and methods for low current neural modulation |
EP2760534A4 (en) * | 2011-09-30 | 2015-08-19 | Adi Mashiach | Modulator apparatus configured for implantation |
US8577467B2 (en) | 2011-09-30 | 2013-11-05 | Nyxoah SA | Apparatus and method for controlling energy delivery as a function of degree of coupling |
US8577468B2 (en) | 2011-09-30 | 2013-11-05 | Nyxoah SA | Apparatus and method for extending implant life using a dual power scheme |
US8798773B2 (en) | 2011-09-30 | 2014-08-05 | Man & Science, SA | Electrode configuration for implantable modulator |
US8588941B2 (en) | 2011-09-30 | 2013-11-19 | Nyxoah SA | Device and method for modulating nerves using parallel electric fields |
US10828492B2 (en) | 2011-09-30 | 2020-11-10 | Adi Mashiach | Devices and methods for low current neural modulation |
US8718776B2 (en) | 2011-09-30 | 2014-05-06 | Nyxoah SA | Apparatus and method to control an implant |
US9302093B2 (en) | 2011-09-30 | 2016-04-05 | Nyxoah SA | Devices and methods for delivering energy as a function of condition severity |
US9649493B2 (en) | 2011-09-30 | 2017-05-16 | Adi Mashiach | System and method for nerve modulation using noncontacting electrodes |
US9314613B2 (en) | 2011-09-30 | 2016-04-19 | Adi Mashiach | Apparatus and methods for modulating nerves using parallel electric fields |
US9358392B2 (en) | 2011-09-30 | 2016-06-07 | Adi Mashiach | Electrode configuration for implantable modulator |
US8644957B2 (en) | 2011-09-30 | 2014-02-04 | Nyxoah SA | Electrode configuration for implantable modulator |
US8700183B2 (en) | 2011-09-30 | 2014-04-15 | Nyxoah SA | Devices and methods for low current neural modulation |
US9403009B2 (en) | 2011-09-30 | 2016-08-02 | Nyxoah SA | Apparatus and methods for implant coupling indication |
US10653888B2 (en) | 2012-01-26 | 2020-05-19 | Bluewind Medical Ltd | Wireless neurostimulators |
US11648410B2 (en) | 2012-01-26 | 2023-05-16 | Bluewind Medical Ltd. | Wireless neurostimulators |
US9662496B2 (en) | 2012-05-15 | 2017-05-30 | Imthera Medical, Inc | Stimulation of a hypoglossal nerve for controlling the position of a patient's tongue |
US9987491B2 (en) | 2012-05-15 | 2018-06-05 | Imthera Medical, Inc. | Stimulation of a hypoglossal nerve for controlling the position of a patient's tongue |
AU2016256683B2 (en) * | 2012-05-15 | 2018-05-17 | Imthera Medical, Inc. | Stimulation of a hypoglossal nerve for controlling the position of a patient's tongue |
US10751538B2 (en) | 2012-05-15 | 2020-08-25 | Imthera Medical, Inc. | Stimulation of a hypoglossal nerve for controlling the position of a patient's tongue |
AU2013263068B2 (en) * | 2012-05-15 | 2016-09-29 | Imthera Medical, Inc. | Stimulation of a hypoglossal nerve for controlling the position of a patient's tongue |
US9468753B2 (en) * | 2012-06-14 | 2016-10-18 | Case Western Reserve University | System and method for stimulating motor units |
US9884195B2 (en) | 2012-06-14 | 2018-02-06 | Case Western Reserve University | Delaying the onset of muscle fatigue associated with functional electrical stimulation |
US20140031910A1 (en) * | 2012-06-14 | 2014-01-30 | Case Western Reserve University | System and method for stimulating motor units |
WO2014004526A1 (en) * | 2012-06-25 | 2014-01-03 | Niveus Medical, Inc. | Devices and systems for stimulation of tissues |
WO2014049448A3 (en) * | 2012-07-26 | 2014-07-17 | Adi Mashiach | Implant encapsulation |
US8838256B2 (en) | 2012-07-26 | 2014-09-16 | Nyxoah SA | Implant encapsulation |
US9220907B2 (en) | 2012-07-26 | 2015-12-29 | Adi Mashiach | Implant encapsulation |
CN104736194A (en) * | 2012-07-26 | 2015-06-24 | 阿迪.玛西亚克 | Implant encapsulation |
WO2014049448A2 (en) * | 2012-07-26 | 2014-04-03 | Adi Mashiach | Implant encapsulation |
US11278719B2 (en) | 2012-12-06 | 2022-03-22 | Bluewind Medical Ltd. | Delivery of implantable neurostimulators |
US11464966B2 (en) | 2012-12-06 | 2022-10-11 | Bluewind Medical Ltd. | Delivery of implantable neurostimulators |
US10238863B2 (en) | 2012-12-06 | 2019-03-26 | Bluewind Medical Ltd. | Delivery of implantable neurostimulators |
US9861812B2 (en) | 2012-12-06 | 2018-01-09 | Blue Wind Medical Ltd. | Delivery of implantable neurostimulators |
US8874220B2 (en) * | 2012-12-13 | 2014-10-28 | Nuraleve Inc. | Neurostimulation system, device, and method |
WO2015039108A3 (en) * | 2013-09-16 | 2015-04-09 | The Board Of Trustees Of The Leland Stanford Junior University | Multi-element coupler for generation of electromagnetic energy |
US9610457B2 (en) | 2013-09-16 | 2017-04-04 | The Board Of Trustees Of The Leland Stanford Junior University | Multi-element coupler for generation of electromagnetic energy |
US9662507B2 (en) | 2013-09-16 | 2017-05-30 | The Board Of Trustees Of The Leland Stanford Junior University | Multi-element coupler for generation of electromagnetic energy |
US9687664B2 (en) | 2013-09-16 | 2017-06-27 | The Board Of Trustees Of The Leland Stanford Junior University | Multi-element coupler for generation of electromagnetic energy |
US10039924B2 (en) | 2013-09-16 | 2018-08-07 | The Board Of Trustees Of The Leland Stanford Junior University | Wireless midfield systems and methods |
US9744369B2 (en) | 2013-09-16 | 2017-08-29 | The Board Of Trustees Of The Leland Stanford Junior University | Multi-element coupler for generation of electromagnetic energy |
US11338142B2 (en) | 2013-11-19 | 2022-05-24 | The Cleveland Clinic Foundation | System and method for treating obstructive sleep apnea |
US10675467B2 (en) | 2013-11-19 | 2020-06-09 | The Cleveland Clinic Foundation | System and method for treating obstructive sleep apnea |
US9757560B2 (en) | 2013-11-19 | 2017-09-12 | The Cleveland Clinic Foundation | System and method for treating obstructive sleep apnea |
US11491333B2 (en) | 2013-11-19 | 2022-11-08 | The Cleveland Clinic Foundation | System and method for treating obstructive sleep apnea |
US11712565B2 (en) | 2013-11-19 | 2023-08-01 | The Cleveland Clinic Foundation | System and method for treating obstructive sleep apnea |
US10065038B2 (en) | 2013-11-19 | 2018-09-04 | The Cleveland Clinic Foundation | System and method for treating obstructive sleep apnea |
US10195426B2 (en) | 2014-01-07 | 2019-02-05 | Invicta Medical, Inc. | Method and apparatus for treating sleep apnea |
US10195427B2 (en) | 2014-01-07 | 2019-02-05 | Invicta Medical, Inc. | Method and apparatus for treating sleep apnea |
US10828502B2 (en) | 2014-03-03 | 2020-11-10 | The Board Of Trustees Of The Leland Stanford Junior University | Methods and apparatus for power conversion and data transmission in implantable sensors, stimulators, and actuators |
US10004913B2 (en) | 2014-03-03 | 2018-06-26 | The Board Of Trustees Of The Leland Stanford Junior University | Methods and apparatus for power conversion and data transmission in implantable sensors, stimulators, and actuators |
US10434329B2 (en) | 2014-05-09 | 2019-10-08 | The Board Of Trustees Of The Leland Stanford Junior University | Autofocus wireless power transfer to implantable devices in freely moving animals |
US9564777B2 (en) | 2014-05-18 | 2017-02-07 | NeuSpera Medical Inc. | Wireless energy transfer system for an implantable medical device using a midfield coupler |
US9583980B2 (en) | 2014-05-18 | 2017-02-28 | NeuSpera Medical Inc. | Midfield coupler |
USD750268S1 (en) | 2014-12-03 | 2016-02-23 | Neurohabilitation Corporation | Non-invasive neurostimulation device |
USD751214S1 (en) | 2014-12-03 | 2016-03-08 | Neurohabilitation Corporation | Non-invasive neurostimulation device |
US11197994B2 (en) | 2014-12-03 | 2021-12-14 | Helius Medical, Inc | Systems for providing non-invasive neurorehabilitation of a patient |
US9072889B1 (en) * | 2014-12-03 | 2015-07-07 | Neurohabilitation Corporation | Systems for providing non-invasive neurorehabilitation of a patient |
US9227051B1 (en) | 2014-12-03 | 2016-01-05 | Neurohabilitation Corporation | Devices for delivering non-invasive neuromodulation to a patient |
USD749746S1 (en) | 2014-12-03 | 2016-02-16 | Neurohabilitation Corporation | Non-invasive neurostimulation device |
USD750267S1 (en) | 2014-12-03 | 2016-02-23 | Neurohabilitation Corporation | Non-invasive neurostimulation device |
USD750264S1 (en) | 2014-12-03 | 2016-02-23 | Neurohabilitation Corporation | Non-invasive neurostimulation device |
USD750265S1 (en) | 2014-12-03 | 2016-02-23 | Neurohabilitation Corporation | Non-invasive neurostimulation device |
US9616222B2 (en) | 2014-12-03 | 2017-04-11 | Neurohabilitation Corporation | Systems for providing non-invasive neurorehabilitation of a patient |
US9789306B2 (en) | 2014-12-03 | 2017-10-17 | Neurohabilitation Corporation | Systems and methods for providing non-invasive neurorehabilitation of a patient |
USD750266S1 (en) | 2014-12-03 | 2016-02-23 | Neurohabilitation Corporation | Non-invasive neurostimulation device |
USD750794S1 (en) | 2014-12-03 | 2016-03-01 | Neurohabilitation Corporation | Non-invasive neurostimulation device |
US10258790B2 (en) | 2014-12-03 | 2019-04-16 | Helius Medical, Inc. | Systems for providing non-invasive neurorehabilitation of a patient |
US9272133B1 (en) | 2014-12-03 | 2016-03-01 | Neurohabilitation Corporation | Methods of manufacturing devices for the neurorehabilitation of a patient |
USD751213S1 (en) | 2014-12-03 | 2016-03-08 | Neurohabilitation Corporation | Non-invasive neurostimulation device |
US9981127B2 (en) | 2014-12-03 | 2018-05-29 | Neurohabilitation Corporation | Systems and methods for providing non-invasive neurorehabilitation of a patient |
US9993640B2 (en) | 2014-12-03 | 2018-06-12 | Neurohabilitation Corporation | Devices for delivering non-invasive neuromodulation to a patient |
US10463850B2 (en) | 2014-12-03 | 2019-11-05 | Helius Medical, Inc. | Methods of manufacturing devices for the neurorehabilitation of a patient |
US9656060B2 (en) | 2014-12-03 | 2017-05-23 | Neurohabilitation Corporation | Methods of manufacturing devices for the neurorehabilitation of a patient |
US9415209B2 (en) | 2014-12-03 | 2016-08-16 | Neurohabilitation Corporation | Methods of manufacturing devices for the neurorehabilitation of a patient |
US9415210B2 (en) | 2014-12-03 | 2016-08-16 | Neurohabilitation Corporation | Methods of manufacturing devices for the neurorehabilitation of a patient |
US9283377B1 (en) | 2014-12-03 | 2016-03-15 | Neurohabilitation Corporation | Devices for delivering non-invasive neuromodulation to a patient |
USD760397S1 (en) | 2014-12-03 | 2016-06-28 | Neurohabilitation Corporation | Non-invasive neurostimulation device |
USD759830S1 (en) | 2014-12-03 | 2016-06-21 | Neurohabilitation Corporation | Non-invasive neurostimulation device |
US10709887B2 (en) | 2014-12-03 | 2020-07-14 | Helius Medical, Inc | Devices for delivering non-invasive neuromodulation to a patient |
USD751722S1 (en) | 2014-12-03 | 2016-03-15 | Neurohabilitation Corporation | Non-invasive neurostimulation device |
USD753315S1 (en) | 2014-12-03 | 2016-04-05 | Neurohabilitation Corporation | Non-invasive neurostimulation device |
USD752236S1 (en) | 2014-12-03 | 2016-03-22 | Neurohabilitation Corporation | Non-invasive neurostimulation device |
USD753316S1 (en) | 2014-12-03 | 2016-04-05 | Neurohabilitation Corporation | Non-invasive neurostimulation device |
USD752766S1 (en) | 2014-12-03 | 2016-03-29 | Neurohabilitation Corporation | Non-invasive neurostimulation device |
US9764146B2 (en) | 2015-01-21 | 2017-09-19 | Bluewind Medical Ltd. | Extracorporeal implant controllers |
US10004896B2 (en) | 2015-01-21 | 2018-06-26 | Bluewind Medical Ltd. | Anchors and implant devices |
US9597521B2 (en) | 2015-01-21 | 2017-03-21 | Bluewind Medical Ltd. | Transmitting coils for neurostimulation |
US11806526B2 (en) | 2015-03-19 | 2023-11-07 | Inspire Medical Systems, Inc. | Stimulation for treating sleep disordered breathing |
US10898709B2 (en) | 2015-03-19 | 2021-01-26 | Inspire Medical Systems, Inc. | Stimulation for treating sleep disordered breathing |
US11850424B2 (en) | 2015-03-19 | 2023-12-26 | Inspire Medical Systems, Inc. | Stimulation for treating sleep disordered breathing |
US9988017B2 (en) * | 2015-04-29 | 2018-06-05 | Hella Kgaa Hueck & Co. | Access and driver authentication system with increased security against relay attacks using movement sensor technology integrated into the authentication tool |
US11338148B2 (en) | 2015-05-15 | 2022-05-24 | NeuSpera Medical Inc. | External power devices and systems |
US9782589B2 (en) | 2015-06-10 | 2017-10-10 | Bluewind Medical Ltd. | Implantable electrostimulator for improving blood flow |
US10369366B2 (en) | 2015-06-10 | 2019-08-06 | Bluewind Medical Ltd. | Implantable electrostimulator for improving blood flow |
US11141592B2 (en) | 2015-09-29 | 2021-10-12 | Medtronic, Inc. | Neural stimulation to treat sleep apnea |
US10195428B2 (en) | 2015-09-29 | 2019-02-05 | Medtronic, Inc. | Neural stimulation to treat sleep apnea |
US11612747B2 (en) | 2015-11-09 | 2023-03-28 | Bluewind Medical Ltd. | Optimization of application of current |
US11116975B2 (en) | 2015-11-09 | 2021-09-14 | Bluewind Medical Ltd. | Optimization of application of current |
US10105540B2 (en) | 2015-11-09 | 2018-10-23 | Bluewind Medical Ltd. | Optimization of application of current |
US9713707B2 (en) | 2015-11-12 | 2017-07-25 | Bluewind Medical Ltd. | Inhibition of implant migration |
US10449374B2 (en) | 2015-11-12 | 2019-10-22 | Bluewind Medical Ltd. | Inhibition of implant migration |
US10084612B2 (en) * | 2016-10-05 | 2018-09-25 | International Business Machines Corporation | Remote control with muscle sensor and alerting sensor |
US10785052B2 (en) | 2016-10-05 | 2020-09-22 | International Business Machines Corporation | Remote control with muscle sensor and alerting sensor |
US10124178B2 (en) | 2016-11-23 | 2018-11-13 | Bluewind Medical Ltd. | Implant and delivery tool therefor |
US11439833B2 (en) | 2016-11-23 | 2022-09-13 | Bluewind Medical Ltd. | Implant-delivery tool |
US10744331B2 (en) | 2016-11-23 | 2020-08-18 | Bluewind Medical Ltd. | Implant and delivery tool therefor |
US11213685B2 (en) | 2017-06-13 | 2022-01-04 | Bluewind Medical Ltd. | Antenna configuration |
US11951316B2 (en) | 2017-06-13 | 2024-04-09 | Bluewind Medical Ltd. | Antenna configuration |
CN110944713A (en) * | 2017-06-23 | 2020-03-31 | Gsk消费者健康有限公司 | Device and method for button-less control of wearable transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulator using interactive gestures and other means |
US11298540B2 (en) * | 2017-08-11 | 2022-04-12 | Inspire Medical Systems, Inc. | Cuff electrode |
US10426424B2 (en) | 2017-11-21 | 2019-10-01 | General Electric Company | System and method for generating and performing imaging protocol simulations |
US11266837B2 (en) | 2019-03-06 | 2022-03-08 | Medtronic Xomed, Inc. | Position sensitive lingual muscle simulation system for obstructive sleep apnea |
US11291842B2 (en) | 2019-05-02 | 2022-04-05 | Xii Medical, Inc. | Systems and methods for improving sleep disordered breathing |
US11420063B2 (en) | 2019-05-02 | 2022-08-23 | Xii Medical, Inc. | Systems and methods to improve sleep disordered breathing using closed-loop feedback |
US11869211B2 (en) | 2019-05-02 | 2024-01-09 | Xii Medical, Inc. | Systems and methods to improve sleep disordered breathing using closed-loop feedback |
US11351380B2 (en) | 2019-05-02 | 2022-06-07 | Xii Medical, Inc. | Implantable stimulation power receiver, systems and methods |
US11883667B2 (en) | 2019-10-15 | 2024-01-30 | Xii Medical, Inc. | Biased neuromodulation lead and method of using same |
US11420061B2 (en) | 2019-10-15 | 2022-08-23 | Xii Medical, Inc. | Biased neuromodulation lead and method of using same |
US11491324B2 (en) | 2019-10-16 | 2022-11-08 | Invicta Medical, Inc. | Adjustable devices for treating sleep apnea, and associated systems and methods |
US11617888B2 (en) | 2020-11-04 | 2023-04-04 | Invicta Medical, Inc. | Implantable electrodes with remote power delivery for treating sleep apnea, and associated systems and methods |
US11883668B2 (en) | 2020-11-04 | 2024-01-30 | Invicta Medical, Inc. | Implantable electrodes with remote power delivery for treating sleep apnea, and associated systems and methods |
US11691010B2 (en) | 2021-01-13 | 2023-07-04 | Xii Medical, Inc. | Systems and methods for improving sleep disordered breathing |
WO2022266591A1 (en) * | 2021-06-14 | 2022-12-22 | Rehabtronics Inc. | Systems for mitigating pressure injuries |
US11400299B1 (en) | 2021-09-14 | 2022-08-02 | Rainbow Medical Ltd. | Flexible antenna for stimulator |
CN114795230A (en) * | 2022-03-29 | 2022-07-29 | 北京理工大学 | Implantable wireless neural sensor for recording electroencephalogram signals |
US11964154B1 (en) | 2023-06-07 | 2024-04-23 | Invicta Medical, Inc. | Signal delivery devices to treat sleep apnea, and associated methods and systems |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
US10806926B2 (en) | 2020-10-20 |
EP2558158A1 (en) | 2013-02-20 |
IL252231B (en) | 2019-07-31 |
AU2010309433A1 (en) | 2013-08-29 |
WO2011048590A1 (en) | 2011-04-28 |
IL223774A (en) | 2017-05-29 |
CA2803485C (en) | 2022-08-23 |
AU2010309433B2 (en) | 2015-10-22 |
CA2803485A1 (en) | 2011-04-28 |
US20200406030A1 (en) | 2020-12-31 |
IL252231A0 (en) | 2017-07-31 |
EP4218920A1 (en) | 2023-08-02 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US20200406030A1 (en) | Implantable electrical stimulator | |
US11478648B2 (en) | Antenna and methods of use for an implantable nerve stimulator | |
US11351380B2 (en) | Implantable stimulation power receiver, systems and methods | |
CN105873508B (en) | Implantation material unit means of delivery | |
US7899541B2 (en) | Systems and methods for implantable leadless gastrointestinal tissue stimulation | |
CA2641821C (en) | An rfid-based apparatus, system, and method for therapeutic treatment of a patient | |
US20070100388A1 (en) | Implantable medical device providing adaptive neurostimulation therapy for incontinence | |
AU2012201366B8 (en) | An RFID based apparatus, system, and method for therapeutic treatment of a patient |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: NYXOAH SA, BELGIUM Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:MASHIACH, ADI;REEL/FRAME:023393/0309 Effective date: 20091020 |
|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: MAN & SCIENCE SA, BELGIUM Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:NYXOAH SA;REEL/FRAME:027003/0633 Effective date: 20110830 |
|
STPP | Information on status: patent application and granting procedure in general |
Free format text: FINAL REJECTION MAILED |
|
STPP | Information on status: patent application and granting procedure in general |
Free format text: NON FINAL ACTION MAILED |
|
STPP | Information on status: patent application and granting procedure in general |
Free format text: RESPONSE TO NON-FINAL OFFICE ACTION ENTERED AND FORWARDED TO EXAMINER |
|
STPP | Information on status: patent application and granting procedure in general |
Free format text: NOTICE OF ALLOWANCE MAILED -- APPLICATION RECEIVED IN OFFICE OF PUBLICATIONS |
|
STPP | Information on status: patent application and granting procedure in general |
Free format text: NOTICE OF ALLOWANCE MAILED -- APPLICATION RECEIVED IN OFFICE OF PUBLICATIONS |
|
STCF | Information on status: patent grant |
Free format text: PATENTED CASE |